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Fall Pasta Salad

Fall Pasta Salad

Fall Pasta Salad is a vibrant, flavorful dish that embodies the spirit of autumn. This salad combines hearty rotini pasta with colorful seasonal ingredients like crunchy broccoli, sweet dried cranberries, and nutty pecans. Tossed together with a tangy homemade vinaigrette, it creates a perfect balance of taste and texture. Ideal for potlucks, Thanksgiving dinners, or any fall gathering, this pasta salad not only pleases the palate but also serves as a stunning centerpiece on your table. Quick to prepare and make-ahead friendly, it’s sure to become a favorite among family and friends.

  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 6

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces rotini pasta
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries
  • 1 small red onion (diced)
  • 2 carrots (grated)
  • 2 cups chopped broccoli florets
  • 1/2 cup olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup
  • 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon pepper
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

Instructions

  1. Cook the rotini pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and cool under cold water.
  2. In a bowl, whisk together the vinaigrette ingredients until well combined.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with pecans, cranberries, onion, carrots, and broccoli. Toss with the vinaigrette.
  4. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to enhance flavors.
  • Author: Natalia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Mixing
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 7g
  • Sodium: 150mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 16g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 31g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Protein: 7g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: Use fresh vegetables for added crunch. Customize by adding roasted sweet potatoes or feta cheese. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days.