Winter Pasta Salad, sturdy shapes like penne, rotini, and farfalle are popular choices for winter pasta salads as they hold up well to dressing and other ingredients. Winter Vegetables Hearty vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, roasted squash, and kale add texture, flavor, and important nutrients. Parmesan cheese is a common addition, providing a salty and savory bite. However, other cheeses like crumbled feta or ricotta can also be used for a different flavor profile. Dried Fruits and Nuts Cranberries, raisins, walnuts, and pecans add sweetness, crunch, and festive flair. Protein Some variations may include cooked chicken, sausage, or beans for added protein and heartiness. Dressing Winter pasta salads often use creamy dressings like mayonnaise-based or tahini-based dressings to balance the flavors and add richness.
Winter Pasta Salad, sturdy shapes like penne, rotini, and farfalle are popular choices for winter pasta salads as they hold up well to dressing and other ingredients.Winter Vegetables Hearty vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, roasted squash, and kale add texture, flavor, and important nutrients.Parmesan cheese is a common addition, providing a salty and savory bite. However, other cheeses like crumbled feta or ricotta can also be used for a different flavor profile.Dried Fruits and Nuts Cranberries, raisins, walnuts, and pecans add sweetness, crunch, and festive flair.Protein Some variations may include cooked chicken, sausage, or beans for added protein and heartiness.Dressing Winter pasta salads often use creamy dressings like mayonnaise-based or tahini-based dressings to balance the flavors and add richness.
Course Salad
Keyword best christmas recipe, best salad recipe, salad recipe 2023, salad recipe 2024, Winter Pasta Salad
Prep Time 25 minutesminutes
Cook Time 20 minutesminutes
Total Time 45 minutesminutes
Servings 6Serving
Calories 320kcal
Cost $20
Ingredients
12OzPasta of your choice (penne, fusilli, or farfalle work well)
1CupRoasted butternut squash, diced
1CupBrussels sprouts, halved
1/2CupDried cranberries
1/2CupToasted walnuts, roughly chopped
1/4CupChopped fresh parsley
1/4CupCrumbled feta cheese (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Dressing
1/4CupOlive oil
2TbspBalsamic vinegar
1TbspMaple syrup or honey
1TspDijon mustard
1CloveGarlic, minced
Instructions
Prepare the Pasta: Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside to cool.
Roast Vegetables: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the diced butternut squash and halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized.
Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, maple syrup (or honey), Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, roasted vegetables, dried cranberries, toasted walnuts, and chopped parsley.
Add the dressing and toss gently to coat everything evenly. If using, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top.
Serve: Garnish with additional parsley or walnuts if desired. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.