As the crisp autumn air settles in and the leaves begin to paint the world in shades of amber and gold, thoughts of Thanksgiving start to dance in my mind. There’s something enchanting about the idea of gathering around a table, surrounded by friends and family, and sharing dishes that tell a story of tradition and warmth. This Thanksgiving Pasta Salad, bursting with color and flavor, is an exciting twist on the classic holiday spread. Imagine tender tri-colored rotini mingling with smoky turkey, sweet roasted butternut squash, and the crunch of shaved Brussels sprouts—all enveloped in a luscious creamy cranberry dressing that ties it all together.
Whether you’re looking for the perfect side to complement your Thanksgiving feast or a delicious way to repurpose those holiday leftovers, this vibrant salad is sure to impress. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a dish that embodies the essence of the season, making each bite a celebration of flavor and nostalgia. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into this cozy dish that’s destined to become a new holiday favorite!
Why is Thanksgiving Pasta Salad a must-try?
Flavorful complexity: Each ingredient brings something special—smoky turkey melds beautifully with sweet butternut squash.
Creamy dressing: The silky cranberry dressing adds a delightful tang, making this salad a standout side.
Easy to prepare: With straightforward steps, this dish comes together quickly, leaving you more time to enjoy with loved ones.
Make-ahead convenience: It can be prepared a day prior, allowing flavors to deepen and making your holiday prep smoother.
Crowd-pleaser: Colorful and hearty, it appeals to everyone at the table, turning heads and filling bellies. For more inspiration, check out how to use seasonal ingredients to elevate your dishes!
Thanksgiving Pasta Salad Ingredients
For the Salad
• Tri-Color Rotini Pasta – Provides structure and a colorful appeal. Substitute with any pasta of choice.
• Frozen Butternut Squash (3 cups) – Adds sweetness and texture. Fresh butternut squash can be roasted instead.
• Shaved Brussels Sprouts (1 cup) – Introduces crispness. Can substitute with spinach or arugula for a different texture.
• Diced Red Onion (3/4 cup) – Imbues a flavorful sharpness. Green onions can be a milder option.
• Diced Turkey Breast (8 ounces) – Adds protein and a traditional Thanksgiving flavor. Substitute with cooked chicken for a variation.
• Dried Cranberries (6 ounces) – Provides sweetness and chewiness. Apricots or raisins can be used as alternatives.
For the Creamy Dressing
• Jellied Cranberry Sauce (1/4 to 1/2 cup) – Adds a sweet and tangy flavor to the dressing. Use whole berry cranberry sauce for a chunkier texture.
• Mayonnaise (2 cups) – Offers creaminess to the dressing. Greek yogurt can be used for a lighter version.
• Seasoned Rice Vinegar (1/4 cup) – Adds acidity to balance the flavors. Regular rice vinegar is a good substitute.
• Grainy Mustard (1 tbsp) – Gives depth to the dressing flavor. Dijon mustard can be used as an alternative.
• Celery Salt (1-2 tsp) – Enhances flavor with a savory note. Regular salt can be used, but adjust quantity.
• Celery Seed (2-3 tsp) – Adds aromatic flavor. Omit if unavailable; use fresh celery as a substitute.
• Sage (1/8 tsp) & Poultry Seasoning (1/2 tsp) – Provide earthy, aromatic flavors. Adjust according to preference.
• Black Pepper (pinch) – For seasoning. Freshly ground gives the best flavor.
For Roasting
• Olive Oil (2 tbsp + drizzle) – Used for roasting the squash. Can replace with avocado oil.
How to Make Thanksgiving Pasta Salad
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Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the tri-color rotini according to package directions. Drain well and let it cool to room temperature to avoid clumping.
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Prepare Squash: Thaw and drain the frozen butternut squash. Pat it dry and toss it with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, celery salt, and black pepper. Bake at 400°F for 20 minutes, tossing occasionally until caramelized and slightly crispy. Allow it to cool completely.
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Make Dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together the seasoned rice vinegar and jellied cranberry sauce until smooth. Add in the mayonnaise, grainy mustard, celery seed, sage, poultry seasoning, and adjust seasoning to your taste.
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Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled rotini, diced turkey, shaved Brussels sprouts, diced red onion, dried cranberries, and the cooled butternut squash. Gently toss to ensure even distribution.
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Dress the Salad: Gradually pour the creamy dressing over the salad mixture. Toss everything together until the pasta and veggies are well-coated in the dressing. Adjust the amount of dressing as desired for your preferred creaminess.
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Chill: Cover the salad and let it sit in the refrigerator for 3-4 hours before serving. This helps the flavors meld beautifully and softens the Brussels sprouts.
Optional: Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or extra cranberries for a festive touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Thanksgiving Pasta Salad
- Brussels Sprouts Technique: Ensure Brussels sprouts are shaved thinly for the best texture; use a mandoline if available. If not, consider omitting.
- Flavor Development: Allow the salad to rest for 3-4 hours post-preparation; this enhances taste and softens the raw veggies for a delightful mouthfeel.
- Dressing Balance: As you whisk together your creamy dressing, measure the cranberry sauce carefully; taste and adjust to find the perfect balance between sweetness and tang.
- Pasta Cooling: After cooking the tri-color rotini, ensure it cools completely before mixing to prevent it from clumping together and sticking to the other ingredients.
- Ingredient Substitutions: Feel free to experiment—swapping turkey for chicken or leaving it out makes for a delicious vegetarian Thanksgiving Pasta Salad.
- Make-Ahead Magic: This salad works wonderfully for meal prep; consider making it the day before your gathering to let the flavors truly meld.
Thanksgiving Pasta Salad Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to explore and personalize this festive dish to suit your taste buds!
- Vegetarian Option: Leave out the turkey and replace it with extra roasted veggies or chickpeas for a hearty touch.
- Pasta Swap: Use whole grain or gluten-free pasta shapes for a healthier or allergen-friendly alternative. Enjoy the same comforting flavors with a lighter twist!
- Nuts Galore: Incorporate toasted pecans or walnuts for a crunchy surprise and nutty flavor that adds dimension to each bite.
- Sweet Potato Twist: Replace butternut squash with roasted sweet potatoes for an even sweeter touch that pairs nicely with the tart dressing.
- Herb Infusion: Enhance the dressing with fresh herbs like basil or cilantro for a burst of freshness and elevated flavor.
- Fruit Fusion: Add diced apples or pears for a sweet and juicy contrast that highlights the salad’s creamy dressing beautifully.
- Dressing Variations: Swap out jellied cranberry sauce for apple or raspberry preserves for a unique twist on the classic flavors!
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing or toss in sliced jalapeños for a savory and spicy element that excites the palate!
How to Store and Freeze Thanksgiving Pasta Salad
Fridge: Store your Thanksgiving Pasta Salad in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps keep the ingredients fresh while allowing flavors to blend beautifully.
Freezer: While freezing is not recommended due to the dressing’s texture, you can freeze the salad without the dressing for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge and add dressing just before serving.
Reheating: If you’ve assembled the salad without dressing, you can gently reheat the squash and turkey in the microwave. However, it’s best enjoyed cold or at room temperature.
Make-Ahead: This salad can be made a day ahead of time. The longer it sits in the fridge, the more the flavors develop, making it a perfect stress-free side for your Thanksgiving feast.
Make Ahead Options
These Thanksgiving Pasta Salad preparations are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time during the holiday rush! You can prepare the creamy dressing and roast the butternut squash up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store the dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator and let the squash cool completely before refrigerating it as well. When you’re ready to serve, cook the pasta and combine it with the diced turkey, shaved Brussels sprouts, and cooled ingredients. Toss everything together with the dressing, and let the salad chill for an additional 3-4 hours to enhance the flavors. By pre-prepping these components, you’ll have a delicious, festive side ready to impress with minimal effort!
What to Serve with Thanksgiving Pasta Salad?
Make your Thanksgiving feast unforgettable with delicious pairings that elevate this vibrant salad into a complete meal.
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Herb-Roasted Turkey: This classic holiday dish complements the flavors in the salad perfectly, bringing warmth and tradition to your table. The savory turkey melds seamlessly with the sweet notes of cranberry dressing.
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Maple Glazed Carrots: These tender, sweet carrots add a lovely contrast to the creamy pasta salad. Their caramelized exterior gives a pop of color and flavor that echoes the autumn vibe.
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Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery, these mashed potatoes balance the textures and flavors of the salad. Plus, they’re perfect for soaking up any leftover dressing!
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Cranberry Sauce: A spoonful of cranberry sauce not only enhances the dish’s festive feel but also brightens the palette and serves as a reminder of holiday traditions.
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Stuffing with Sausage: The savory elements in a rustic stuffing provide a delightful counterpoint to the salad’s sweetness. It creates a hearty holiday table that your guests will love.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: For a double dose of this delicious veggie, roasting them brings out their natural sweetness, making them a perfect counterpart to the creamy dressing in your pasta salad.
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Pumpkin Pie: Serve this classic dessert at the end of the meal for a sweet finish. The spiced pumpkin flavor rounds out your Thanksgiving feast beautifully, echoing the season’s flavors throughout your menu.
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Apple Cider: A glass of lightly spiced apple cider offers a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta salad. It’s the perfect drink to bring warmth and a touch of sweetness to your holiday gathering.
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Warm Fresh Bread: A crusty bread adds a comforting texture to your meal, perfect for mopping up the creamy dressing. Consider a rosemary focaccia for an aromatic twist that complements the fall flavors.
Thanksgiving Pasta Salad Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe butternut squash?
Select butternut squash that feels heavy for its size with a smooth, beige skin. Look for ones that are free from dark spots and blemishes; they should feel firm and intact. If you’re using frozen butternut squash, ensure it’s well-packaged and not freezer-burned for the best taste.
What is the best way to store Thanksgiving Pasta Salad?
Store your Thanksgiving Pasta Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This allows the flavors to meld while keeping the ingredients fresh. If you’re concerned about sogginess, consider storing the dressing separately and adding it just before serving.
Can I freeze Thanksgiving Pasta Salad?
While it’s best to avoid freezing the salad with the dressing, you can freeze the unfrosted salad for up to 1 month. To do this, prepare the salad without the dressing, place it in a freezer-safe container, and label it. When ready to serve, thaw overnight in the fridge and add the creamy dressing fresh.
What should I do if my dressing is too thick?
If your dressing turns out thicker than you’d like, don’t fret! Simply whisk in a touch of warm water or extra seasoned rice vinegar a teaspoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency. This step allows the dressing to coat the salad perfectly without overpowering it.
Are there any dietary considerations for Thanksgiving Pasta Salad?
Absolutely! If you’re serving guests with food allergies, you can easily customize this dish. Substitute mayonnaise with dairy-free options like avocado or vegan mayo for a vegan-friendly version. For gluten-free needs, swap tri-color rotini for gluten-free pasta. Always check labels of pre-bought ingredients for allergen information.
How can I keep the Brussels sprouts from being too crunchy?
To ensure your Brussels sprouts have a softer texture, allow the salad to sit in the refrigerator for at least 3-4 hours before serving. This resting period helps to soften the Brussels sprouts while the flavors mingle beautifully, giving you a lovely balance of textures in every bite.
Thanksgiving Pasta Salad: Creamy, Colorful, and Comforting
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the tri-color rotini according to package directions. Drain well and let it cool to room temperature to avoid clumping.
- Thaw and drain the frozen butternut squash. Pat it dry and toss it with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, celery salt, and black pepper. Bake at 400°F for 20 minutes, tossing occasionally until caramelized and slightly crispy. Allow it to cool completely.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the seasoned rice vinegar and jellied cranberry sauce until smooth. Add in the mayonnaise, grainy mustard, celery seed, sage, poultry seasoning, and adjust seasoning to your taste.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled rotini, diced turkey, shaved Brussels sprouts, diced red onion, dried cranberries, and the cooled butternut squash. Gently toss to ensure even distribution.
- Gradually pour the creamy dressing over the salad mixture. Toss everything together until the pasta and veggies are well-coated in the dressing. Adjust the amount of dressing as desired for your preferred creaminess.
- Cover the salad and let it sit in the refrigerator for 3-4 hours before serving. This helps the flavors meld beautifully and softens the Brussels sprouts.