Autumn Pasta Salad with Roasted Butternut Squash and Maple Dijon Dressing
This cozy and harvest-inspired autumn pasta salad is perfect for those crisp transition months. It features caramelized, oven-roasted butternut squash, chewy dried cranberries, and crunchy pecans tossed with baby spinach and a zesty maple Dijon vinaigrette. The perfect balance of sweet roasted squash and salty feta cheese makes this dish a satisfying, nutrient-dense meal that is sophisticated enough for gatherings yet simple enough for a busy weeknight dinner.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 25
- Total Time: 40
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Roasting and Boiling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
8 oz rotini, penne, or fusilli pasta
2 cups butternut squash, peeled and 1-inch cubed
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and black pepper to taste
1/2 cup dried cranberries
1/2 cup pecans, toasted and chopped
3 cups baby spinach
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
3 tablespoons olive oil (for dressing)
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon maple syrup
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Toss the cubed butternut squash with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
Roast the squash for 20-25 minutes or until tender and lightly browned.
While the squash roasts, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package directions until al dente.
Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons of olive oil, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, and Dijon mustard until emulsified.
In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, roasted squash, dried cranberries, pecans, and baby spinach.
Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss well to coat.
Gently fold in the crumbled feta cheese before serving.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For a protein boost, add grilled chicken or chickpeas. You can use toasted walnuts instead of pecans if preferred.
Find it online: https://cookingwithramsay.com/autumn-pasta-salad/