Description
Fall Pasta Salad is a delightful, vibrant side dish that brings the flavors of autumn to your table. This easy-to-make salad combines al dente rotini pasta with fresh broccoli, crunchy pecans, and sweet cranberries, all tossed in a zesty homemade vinaigrette. Perfect for gatherings and potlucks, this crowd-pleaser is not only visually appealing but also packed with seasonal ingredients that make it a nutritious choice for any occasion. Enjoy it as a refreshing side or light lunch; either way, it’s sure to impress your guests!
Ingredients
- 8 ounces rotini pasta (uncooked)
- 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
Instructions
- Cook the rotini pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- While the pasta cooks, prepare the vegetables: dice the red onion, grate the carrots, and chop the broccoli.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together dressing ingredients until well combined.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, vegetables, pecans, and cranberries. Pour dressing over the mixture and toss gently to coat.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 0mg