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Autumn Harvest Pasta Salad with Maple Vinaigrette

Close-up of a bowl of fall pasta salad featuring fusilli pasta, roasted butternut squash, and bacon bits.
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A hearty and flavorful cold pasta salad perfect for potlucks, featuring seasonal ingredients like butternut squash and cranberries, with a sweet maple vinaigrette. This recipe travels well and can be made ahead.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound pasta (gluten-free option available)
  • 1 pound butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed
  • 1 cup fresh cranberries
  • 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
  • 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • For the Maple Vinaigrette:
  • 1/2 cup olive oil
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup
  • 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the cubed butternut squash with a tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender. Let cool.
  2. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. If using gluten-free pasta, follow its specific cooking instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool.
  3. While the pasta cooks, prepare the maple vinaigrette. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
  4. In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, roasted butternut squash, fresh cranberries, and chopped walnuts.
  5. Pour the maple vinaigrette over the pasta mixture. Toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
  6. If using, gently fold in the crumbled goat cheese.
  7. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
  8. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. This dish is ideal for meal planning and can be prepared a day in advance.

Notes

  • For a nut-free version, omit the walnuts.
  • If you don’t have apple cider vinegar, red wine vinegar can be substituted.
  • This salad pairs well with a variety of proteins and makes a great addition to your meal planning efforts. Consider it a healthy option similar to what you might find from some best meal delivery services.
  • For those seeking specific dietary options, ensure your pasta choice is gluten-free if needed.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://kitchenslang.com/fall-pasta-salad/