Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this *Winter Pasta Salad with Roasted Squash*! It’s like a warm hug on a chilly day. Picture this: perfectly roasted butternut squash, which adds a touch of sweetness and depth, tossed with your favorite short pasta. This hearty salad is not only filling, but it also bursts with vibrant colors and flavors that scream winter comfort! It’s so easy to whip up, and you won’t believe how satisfying it is. Whether you’re serving it as a main dish or a side, it’s perfect for cozy dinners or holiday gatherings. Trust me, once you try this salad, it’ll become your go-to for those winter meals that warm your soul!
Ingredients
- 8 oz short pasta, like penne or farfalle
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
How to Prepare Winter Pasta Salad with Roasted Squash
Preheat the Oven
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is crucial for getting that butternut squash nice and caramelized, which is just divine!
Roast the Squash
Now, grab that beautiful butternut squash and toss the cubed pieces with the olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Just make sure they’re all coated evenly—this will enhance the flavor! Spread those little gems out on a baking sheet and roast them in your preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when they’re tender and have that lovely golden hue. Oh, the smell of roasting squash is just heavenly!
Cook the Pasta
While the squash is roasting, let’s get that pasta cooking! Follow the package instructions for your chosen short pasta. Once it’s al dente, drain it in a colander and give it a quick rinse under cold water. This stops the cooking process and keeps the pasta from sticking together, which is key for a salad like this!
Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the roasted squash, crumbled feta cheese, chopped parsley, and walnuts. This is where the magic happens! Drizzle the balsamic vinegar over the top and toss everything gently to combine. You want each bite to be packed with flavor and color!
Serving Suggestions
Finally, serve your *Winter Pasta Salad with Roasted Squash* chilled or at room temperature. Both ways are scrumptious, so it’s all up to your preference! This hearty salad is perfect for meal prep, cozy dinners, or even festive gatherings. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Nutritional Information
Okay, so let’s talk about the nutrition in this delicious *Winter Pasta Salad with Roasted Squash*! While I always say it’s important to enjoy your food, knowing what’s in it can be helpful too. Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional values per serving, which is about 1 cup:
- Calories: 300
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 8g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. But hey, with all those veggies, healthy fats, and protein from the feta and walnuts, you’re definitely getting a wholesome meal here! Enjoy every bite with the knowledge that it’s not just tasty, but also nourishing!
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your *Winter Pasta Salad with Roasted Squash* turns out absolutely perfect! Here are my favorite tips to elevate this dish:
- Seasoning is Key: Don’t be shy with the seasoning! Feel free to adjust the salt and pepper to your taste. You could even sprinkle in some garlic powder or a pinch of cayenne for a little kick!
- Swap the Cheese: If feta isn’t your thing, try using goat cheese for a creamier texture or even some sharp cheddar for a different flavor profile. Yum!
- Experiment with Veggies: This salad is super versatile! You can add other roasted vegetables like bell peppers, Brussels sprouts, or even some red onions for a sweet twist.
- Make it Creamy: For a creamier dressing, mix in a dollop of Greek yogurt or a splash of olive oil with the balsamic vinegar. It’ll give your salad a lovely richness!
- Storage Tips: If you’re making this ahead of time, keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve. It helps keep everything fresh and prevents the pasta from getting mushy.
- Nut Alternatives: Not a fan of walnuts? Swap them out for toasted pecans or even sunflower seeds for added crunch!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to create a *Winter Pasta Salad with Roasted Squash* that’s bursting with flavor and sure to impress your family and friends. Happy cooking!
Variations
Now, let’s get creative with your *Winter Pasta Salad with Roasted Squash*! There are so many fun ways to switch things up and make this dish uniquely yours. Here are some of my favorite variations:
- Roasted Veggie Medley: Instead of just butternut squash, try mixing in other seasonal vegetables like sweet potatoes, carrots, or even Brussels sprouts. They all roast beautifully and add different flavors and textures!
- Protein Boost: For a heartier meal, add some cooked chicken, turkey, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option. This will turn your salad into a complete meal that’s super satisfying!
- Different Cheeses: If you want to switch up the flavor, go ahead and use goat cheese, blue cheese, or even a sharp cheddar. Each cheese will bring its own unique taste to the salad!
- Herb Swap: Mix things up with different herbs! Instead of parsley, try fresh basil or arugula for a peppery kick. Fresh thyme or rosemary could also add a lovely aromatic touch!
- Dress It Up: While balsamic vinegar is delicious, feel free to experiment with other dressings. A lemon vinaigrette, honey mustard, or even a creamy tahini dressing can give your salad a whole new vibe!
- Nuts & Seeds Variety: If you’re looking for something different, swap the walnuts for pecans, almonds, or even pumpkin seeds. Each option adds a delightful crunch and flavor!
With these variations, you can easily adapt your *Winter Pasta Salad with Roasted Squash* to suit your taste or whatever ingredients you have on hand. Have fun experimenting and enjoy every delicious bite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Hearty & Filling: This *Winter Pasta Salad with Roasted Squash* is packed with wholesome ingredients that will keep you satisfied and warm on those chilly days.
- Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal prep, this recipe is perfect for both seasoned cooks and kitchen newbies alike. You’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time!
- Flavorful & Colorful: The combination of roasted squash, crumbled feta, and fresh herbs creates a vibrant dish that bursts with flavor in every bite. It’s a feast for the eyes and the taste buds!
- Versatile & Customizable: Feel free to switch up the ingredients or add your favorite veggies and proteins. This salad can adapt to whatever you have on hand, making it a go-to recipe year-round.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: This salad keeps well in the fridge, making it an ideal choice for meal prep. Enjoy it for lunch or dinner throughout the week!
- Great for Gatherings: Whether it’s a holiday feast or a casual get-together, this salad is sure to impress your family and friends. It’s a crowd-pleaser that complements any spread!
FAQ Section
Can I use other types of squash?
Absolutely! While butternut squash is a star in this *Winter Pasta Salad with Roasted Squash*, you can easily swap it out for other types of squash. Acorn squash, delicata, or even pumpkin can bring a delightful twist to the flavor and texture. Just make sure to adjust the roasting time slightly depending on the size and density of the squash you choose. Oh, the possibilities are endless!
How can I make this dish vegan?
If you’re looking to make this salad vegan, it’s super easy! Simply omit the feta cheese or replace it with a plant-based cheese alternative. You could also use some mashed avocado for creaminess or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for that cheesy flavor without the dairy. Don’t forget to check your balsamic vinegar to ensure it’s vegan-friendly, as some brands might have added ingredients!
What can I serve with Winter Pasta Salad with Roasted Squash?
This hearty salad pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes! For a complete meal, serve it alongside a light protein like grilled chicken or roasted chickpeas. You could also add some crusty bread for dipping or a simple green salad to balance things out. If you’re feeling fancy, a warm soup like tomato bisque or a comforting butternut squash soup would be perfect for a cozy dinner setting. Enjoy mixing and matching!
For more information on the health benefits of squash, you can visit Healthline.
Print
Winter Pasta Salad with Roasted Squash: 7 Comforting Flavors
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A hearty winter pasta salad featuring roasted squash, perfect for a filling meal.
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
- Spread the squash on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes until tender.
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions; drain and rinse under cold water.
- In a large bowl, combine the pasta, roasted squash, feta cheese, parsley, and walnuts.
- Drizzle balsamic vinegar over the salad and toss gently to combine.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
- Choose any short pasta like penne or farfalle for this recipe.
- Feel free to add other roasted vegetables.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Roasting and Mixing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: Winter Pasta Salad, Roasted Squash, Pasta Salad Recipe
