Fall Pasta Salad with Butternut Squash and Brussels

If you’re looking for a dish that captures the essence of fall, you’ve come to the right place! This Fall Pasta Salad with Butternut Squash and Brussels is like a warm hug on a plate. With roasted Brussels sprouts, sweet butternut squash, and crisp apples, every bite celebrates the season’s flavors. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or as a show-stopping side for family gatherings. I love how it combines hearty ingredients in a way that feels cozy and comforting.

Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or bringing something special to a potluck, this salad checks all the boxes. Plus, it’s delicious served warm or chilled, making it versatile for any occasion!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this tasty salad in about 45 minutes.
• Family-Friendly: The combination of sweet and savory flavors makes this dish appealing to everyone, from kids to adults!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Perfect for meal prep! You can make it in advance and enjoy it throughout the week.
• Colorful and Inviting: The vibrant colors of butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, and apples make this salad visually stunning.
• Delicious Flavor: The creamy goat cheese and maple dijon dressing elevate this dish to a whole new level of yum!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Fall Pasta Salad features simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find at your local grocery store. Let’s gather everything you need for this delightful dish!

For the Salad

• 8 oz pasta, dry (I use rotini pasta)
• 2 cups Brussels sprouts, diced
• 2 cups butternut squash, diced
• 2 cups apple, diced (I use Honeycrisp)
• 1 Tbsp fresh thyme, chopped (or 1 tsp dried thyme)
• 2 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 4 oz goat cheese, more for topping (or feta cheese)
• ¼ cup dried cranberries (optional)

For the Dressing

• ⅓ cup extra-virgin olive oil
• ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
• 1 Tbsp dijon mustard
• 1 Tbsp maple syrup
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• ½ tsp kosher salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to customize it based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Add More Veggies: Toss in some roasted carrots or kale for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Change the Cheese: If goat cheese isn’t your favorite, feta or even a vegan cheese can work beautifully.
• Nutty Crunch: Add some toasted walnuts or pecans for an added crunch that pairs perfectly with the sweetness.
• Herb Swap: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or parsley for a fresh twist!

How to Make Fall Pasta Salad with Butternut Squash and Brussels

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat the oven to 400℉ (200°C). This step is key because roasting brings out the natural sweetness of the vegetables. Line your baking sheet with greased parchment paper for easy cleanup later.

Step 2: Roast the Vegetables

Dice your butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, and apples. Place them on the baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle thyme, salt, and pepper. Bake for 20 minutes; then add the apples and roast until everything is fork-tender—about another 10-15 minutes depending on your oven.

Step 3: Cook Your Pasta

While your veggies are roasting away, cook your pasta according to package instructions. Boil salted water on medium-high heat before adding your pasta. For that perfect al dente texture, consider cooking it just a minute or two less than recommended!

Step 4: Make the Maple Dressing

In a small bowl or measuring cup, combine all dressing ingredients—olive oil, balsamic vinegar, dijon mustard, maple syrup, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well-emulsified; this will add such delightful flavor to our salad!

Step 5: Assemble Your Salad

Once everything has cooled down slightly after roasting, it’s time to mix! In a large bowl combine cooled pasta with roasted veggies, crumbled goat cheese (and cranberries if using). Drizzle your homemade dressing over everything and give it a good toss until well coated.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy

If preparing ahead of time, wait to add goat cheese and dressing until just before serving. And remember—using colorful pasta can make this Thanksgiving Pasta Salad even more festive! Enjoy those cozy fall vibes with each bite!

Pro Tips for Making Fall Pasta Salad with Butternut Squash and Brussels

Creating the perfect Fall Pasta Salad is all about bringing out those warm, delicious flavors that make autumn so special! Here are some tips to help you make this dish truly shine.

• Use seasonal ingredients: Fresh, seasonal produce not only enhances flavor but also supports local farmers. Look for firm, vibrant Brussels sprouts and ripe butternut squash at your local market.

• Don’t overcook the veggies: Keep an eye on your roasted veggies; you want them tender but still slightly crisp. This texture adds a delightful contrast to the creamy dressing and pasta.

• Customize your cheese: While goat cheese is lovely, feel free to swap it for feta or a nut-based cheese if you’re looking for a dairy-free option. This way, you can cater to different dietary preferences while keeping that creamy element intact.

• Make-ahead magic: Prepare the roasted vegetables and pasta in advance, then combine everything just before serving. This keeps the salad fresh and makes it easier to enjoy time with guests!

• Experiment with add-ins: Consider tossing in nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch and healthy fats. Dried fruits like apricots or figs can also bring a lovely sweetness that complements the savory elements beautifully.

How to Serve Fall Pasta Salad with Butternut Squash and Brussels

Presentation is key when serving this vibrant salad! Whether it’s a cozy family gathering or a festive potluck, these ideas will help you present it beautifully.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Chopped parsley or additional thyme sprinkled on top adds a pop of color and freshness.
• Toasted seeds: A sprinkle of toasted pumpkin seeds provides an extra layer of crunch and enhances the fall theme.
• Balsamic glaze: Drizzling balsamic glaze over the salad just before serving gives it an elegant touch and amplifies the flavor.

Side Dishes

• Roasted Vegetable Medley: A colorful mix of seasonal vegetables tossed with olive oil, salt, and pepper, roasted until caramelized. This pairs wonderfully with the pasta salad’s flavors while keeping things light.

• Quinoa Pilaf: Fluffy quinoa cooked with vegetable broth, mixed with herbs, nuts, and dried fruit for added texture and taste makes a hearty side that’s also gluten-free.

• Leafy Green Salad: A simple green salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a squeeze of lemon dressing offers a refreshing contrast to the rich pasta salad.

• Grilled Chicken Skewers: If you’re looking for protein options, marinated chicken skewers grilled to perfection provide a delicious complement without overpowering the dish.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Fall Pasta Salad with Butternut Squash and Brussels will be both visually appealing and packed with flavor! Enjoy sharing this delightful dish during the cozy autumn months.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Fall Pasta Salad with Butternut Squash and Brussels is a fantastic option for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy the delicious flavors of autumn throughout the week. It stores beautifully, making it perfect for a busy lunch or a quick dinner.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the salad to cool fully before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• This salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be frozen if necessary.
• Store in an airtight container or freezer bag, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 1 month.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• For best results, gently reheat in a microwave or on the stove with a splash of water to prevent drying out.
• Add fresh goat cheese after reheating for the best texture and flavor.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe!

Can I make this Fall Pasta Salad with Butternut Squash and Brussels ahead of time?

Absolutely! This salad is perfect for meal prep and can be made a day in advance. Just remember to add the goat cheese and dressing right before serving for optimal freshness.

How do I store leftover Fall Pasta Salad with Butternut Squash and Brussels?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If freezing, use an airtight container or freezer bag, and enjoy within a month.

What can I substitute for goat cheese in this Fall Pasta Salad?

If you’re not keen on goat cheese, feta cheese makes a wonderful alternative! You could also try vegan cheese options if you’re looking for plant-based alternatives.

Can I add other vegetables to the Fall Pasta Salad with Butternut Squash and Brussels?

Certainly! Feel free to customize your salad by adding other roasted vegetables like sweet potatoes, carrots, or even kale for added nutrition and flavor.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This Fall Pasta Salad is great for meal prep as it stores well and can be enjoyed over several days. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve!

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you love making this Fall Pasta Salad with Butternut Squash and Brussels as much as I do! It’s not just a treat for your taste buds; it’s also a beautiful dish that embodies the warmth of fall gatherings. Enjoy every bite, share it with loved ones, and let those cozy autumn vibes shine through. Happy cooking!