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Irresistible Fall Harvest Pasta Salad Recipe for Thanksgiving

Fall Harvest Pasta Salad - featured image
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A vibrant and wholesome pasta salad packed with seasonal fall flavors like roasted butternut squash, pecans, cranberries, and a tangy maple Dijon dressing. Perfect for Thanksgiving or autumn gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz bowtie or rotini pasta
  • 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and diced into small cubes
  • 2 tbsp olive oil (for roasting squash)
  • ½ cup dried cranberries
  • ½ cup pecans, roughly chopped
  • 2 cups baby spinach, fresh and washed
  • ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
  • ¼ cup olive oil (for dressing)
  • 2 tbsp pure maple syrup
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss diced butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread evenly on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until tender and lightly caramelized.
  2. Boil pasta in salted water according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper until smooth and emulsified.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, roasted squash, cranberries, pecans, spinach, and feta cheese. Pour dressing over the top and toss gently to coat.
  5. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or maple syrup if needed.
  6. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours to let flavors meld. Bring to room temperature before serving.

Notes

For best results, slightly al dente pasta works well. Spread squash cubes in a single layer for even roasting. Adjust dressing sweetness or tang to your liking. Salad tastes better after sitting for a few hours.

Nutrition

Keywords: Fall Harvest Pasta Salad, Thanksgiving Recipe, Autumn Side Dish, Maple Dijon Dressing, Roasted Butternut Squash Salad

Find it online: https://magnetmeal.com/irresistible-fall-harvest-pasta-salad-recipe-for-thanksgiving/