If you’re searching for a vibrant dish that wraps comfort and freshness into every forkful, then this Warm Orzo Pasta Salad with Butternut Squash and Maple Dijon Vinaigrette Recipe is exactly what you need. The tender, sweet roasted butternut squash perfectly complements the peppery arugula and tender orzo pasta, all brought together by a luscious maple dijon vinaigrette that dances on your taste buds. This salad isn’t just colorful and nutritious—it’s a heartfelt celebration of flavors that feels like a warm hug on a plate, making it ideal for cozy dinners or impressive gatherings alike.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows many small yellow-orange cubes spread evenly across a white baking sheet lined with white parchment paper. The cubes have a smooth, slightly shiny texture with some herbs and black pepper sprinkled over them, adding touches of green and black. A black spatula rests on the top right corner of the baking sheet, overlapping some cubes. The background surface is a white marbled texture visible around the edges of the baking tray. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This recipe calls for straightforward, wholesome ingredients that each play a vital role in making the salad truly unforgettable. From the velvety roasted butternut squash to the zesty and sweet vinaigrette, these components blend seamlessly to balance texture and flavor.

Butternut squash (3 cups, peeled and cubed): The star of the dish, bringing natural sweetness and a melt-in-your-mouth texture when roasted.
DeLallo Extra Virgin Olive Oil (2 tbsp + 1/4 cup): Rich and fruity, adding silkiness for roasting squash and flavoring the dressing.
Fresh thyme (1 tbsp): Adds an earthy, herbal note that enhances the squash perfectly.
Maple syrup (1 tsp + 2 tbsp): Delivers a subtle sweetness that pairs beautifully with Dijon mustard in the vinaigrette.
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning, bringing flavors to life.
DeLallo Orzo (12 oz): Tiny pasta pearls that provide a lovely bite and act as the salad’s hearty base.
Arugula (3-4 cups): Adds a peppery crunch and fresh green color, balancing the richer components.
Apple cider vinegar (2 tbsp): Introduces a tangy brightness that elevates the vinaigrette.
Dijon mustard (1 tbsp): Brings a gentle sharpness and emulsifies the dressing beautifully.
Shallot (1, minced): Provides a mild onion flavor with a touch of sweetness for the dressing.

How to Make Warm Orzo Pasta Salad with Butternut Squash and Maple Dijon Vinaigrette Recipe

Step 1: Roast the Butternut Squash

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the cubed butternut squash with 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, fresh thyme, maple syrup, and a generous pinch of kosher salt and black pepper. Spread the squash in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast for about 25-30 minutes, or until it’s tender and caramelized around the edges. This roasting process draws out the squash’s natural sweetness and creates that irresistible caramelized exterior that’s pure magic in this salad.

Step 2: Cook the Orzo

While the squash is roasting, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-9 minutes. Drain the orzo and rinse briefly with cold water to stop the cooking. This step ensures your orzo remains perfectly tender but not mushy, offering a firm bite that’s essential for the salad’s lovely texture.

Step 3: Prepare the Maple Dijon Vinaigrette

In a bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil, 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, 2 tablespoons maple syrup, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, kosher salt, and the minced shallot. Whisk until the vinaigrette is smooth and emulsified. This tangy and sweet dressing brings all the flavors together, coating the ingredients with a lively, mouthwatering glaze that makes the salad truly sing.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm roasted butternut squash, cooked orzo, and fresh arugula. Pour the maple dijon vinaigrette over the top and toss gently to coat everything evenly. The warmth of the squash and pasta slightly wilts the arugula, creating a harmonious mix of flavors and textures that’s incredibly satisfying with every bite.

How to Serve Warm Orzo Pasta Salad with Butternut Squash and Maple Dijon Vinaigrette Recipe

A clear glass bowl filled with a salad showing three main layers: at the bottom and throughout, small rice-shaped pale yellow pasta pieces; mixed evenly above and through the pasta are bright orange cubes of roasted squash; scattered within and on top are fresh green arugula leaves adding a leafy texture. The salad is lightly speckled with black pepper, and a black spoon rests in the bowl. The bowl is placed on a dark blue knitted cloth on top of a dark wooden surface, with a white marbled surface faintly visible around it. The background includes a blurred white and blue pasta package. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To add a final splash of texture and visual appeal, sprinkle toasted pumpkin seeds or chopped toasted walnuts over the salad before serving. A handful of crumbled feta or goat cheese can also elevate the salad by introducing a creamy, tangy element that perfectly compliments the sweet and savory notes of the dish.

Side Dishes

This warm orzo pasta salad pairs beautifully with roasted chicken or grilled fish for a satisfying meal. For a vegetarian option, serve it alongside a hearty lentil soup or a simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette to keep things fresh and balanced.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider serving this Warm Orzo Pasta Salad with Butternut Squash and Maple Dijon Vinaigrette Recipe in individual mason jars or small bowls for a charming presentation at parties or potlucks. Layering the salad ingredients can create an eye-catching look that invites guests to dig in with excitement.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover warm orzo pasta salad keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Because of the fresh arugula, it’s best to store the vinaigrette separately if possible and toss it just before serving again to maintain crispness.

Freezing

Freezing this pasta salad is not recommended due to the fresh greens and maple dijon vinaigrette, which may separate and lose their texture on thawing. For best quality, enjoy the salad fresh or within a few days refrigerated.

Reheating

If you want to enjoy the salad warm after storing, gently reheat the portion of roasted squash and orzo in a microwave or a skillet, then toss with fresh arugula and vinaigrette just before serving. This keeps the greens fresh and vibrant, preventing wilt.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While orzo gives this salad its lovely tiny pearl-like texture, you can swap it for other small pasta shapes such as couscous or tiny shells. Just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.

What if I don’t have fresh thyme?

Dried thyme can be used in a pinch, but fresh thyme adds a brighter and more fragrant herbal note. Use about one-third the amount if substituting dried thyme for fresh.

Is this salad suitable for vegans?

Yes, the salad is naturally vegan as long as you skip any cheese garnishes. The maple dijon vinaigrette avoids honey in favor of pure maple syrup, keeping the dressing vegan-friendly.

Can I prepare this salad ahead of time for a party?

You can prepare the squash, orzo, and vinaigrette components in advance and keep them refrigerated separately. Toss everything together just before serving to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess.

How spicy is the maple dijon vinaigrette?

It’s gently tangy with a subtle kick from the Dijon mustard, but it’s not spicy hot. The maple syrup tones down any sharpness, creating a beautifully balanced dressing that complements the entire salad.

Final Thoughts

Nothing feels quite like the soulful comfort of a salad that nurtures both body and spirit, and this Warm Orzo Pasta Salad with Butternut Squash and Maple Dijon Vinaigrette Recipe does just that. It’s a celebration of autumn’s best flavors wrapped in a vibrant, easy-to-make dish that you’ll want on your regular rotation. Whether for a cozy family supper or something special to impress guests, this recipe is a wonderful way to fall in love with seasonal cooking all over again. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite salad.

Warm Orzo Pasta Salad with Butternut Squash and Maple Dijon Vinaigrette Recipe