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Fall Harvest Orzo Salad

Fall Harvest Orzo Salad: A Cozy Autumn Delight!

This Fall Harvest Orzo Salad is a comforting dish combining orzo pasta, butternut squash, apples, and cranberries, perfect for autumn gatherings.
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Cooling Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 1 cup Orzo Pasta Choose gluten-free to suit dietary needs.
  • 2 cups Butternut Squash Roast until golden.
  • 1 cup Brussels Sprouts Well-roasted for the best results.
  • 1 medium Red Onion Sliced and roasted.
  • 2 medium Crisp Apples Substitute with pears if desired.
  • 1/2 cup Dried Cranberries Can swap with cherries.
  • 1/4 cup Pumpkin Seeds Replace with walnuts or pecans if preferred.
  • 1 cup Goat Cheese Feta is a great alternative.
For the Maple Vinaigrette
  • 1/4 cup Balsamic Vinegar Tangy base of the dressing.
  • 1/4 cup Olive Oil Use extra virgin for best flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard Helps emulsify the dressing.
  • 2 tablespoons Maple Syrup Adds sweetness.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder A little goes a long way.
  • To taste Salt & Pepper Adjust to taste.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Sheet pan
  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. Cook the orzo pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside to cool.
  2. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). On a sheet pan, spread out the butternut squash, red onion, and Brussels sprouts. Drizzle with avocado oil and salt, then roast for 20-25 minutes until tender.
  3. In a bowl, combine balsamic vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, garlic powder, and water. Whisk together until emulsified, seasoning with salt and pepper.
  4. In a large bowl, combine the cooled orzo, roasted vegetables, and maple vinaigrette. Toss gently to coat.
  5. Allow the salad to cool to room temperature. Top with crumbled goat cheese before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 10gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 6gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 1200IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For the best taste, prepare a day in advance and add goat cheese just before serving.

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