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Fall Harvest Orzo Salad

Fall Harvest Orzo Salad: A Seasonal Delight You’ll Love

This Fall Harvest Orzo Salad brings cozy flavors with roasted butternut squash, tart apples, and sweet dried cranberries, making it a delightful gluten-free dish.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 2 cups orzo pasta gluten-free orzo can be substituted
  • 2 cups butternut squash cubed
  • 2 cups Brussels sprouts halved
  • 1 medium red onion thinly sliced
  • 1 cup dried cranberries or substitute with dried cherries or raisins
  • 1/2 cup toasted pumpkin seeds or substitute with walnuts or pecans
  • 4 oz goat cheese crumbled, optional
For the Dressing
  • 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 2 tbsp maple syrup
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • to taste salt

Equipment

  • large pot
  • baking sheet
  • Medium Bowl
  • Large mixing bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Fall Harvest Orzo Salad
  1. Boil water in a large pot over high heat, add the orzo pasta, and cook according to package instructions for about 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water. Set aside.
  2. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss cubed butternut squash, halved Brussels sprouts, and sliced red onion with olive oil and a pinch of salt. Spread in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes until caramelized.
  3. In a medium bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, garlic powder, and a splash of water until emulsified. Adjust salt to taste.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked orzo, roasted vegetables, and dried cranberries, then pour the vinaigrette over and toss gently.
  5. Allow the salad to cool slightly, then top with crumbled goat cheese and toasted pumpkin seeds.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 8gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 250mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 5gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 600IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

This salad can be made ahead for better flavor. It keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days.

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