Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Roasted Grape Brie Pasta Salad is an elevated take on a classic pasta salad. The roasted grapes add a burst of sweetness that pairs beautifully with the creamy, mild brie cheese. The toasted walnuts, drizzled with honey, bring a rich, slightly sweet crunch, while the honey vinaigrette ties everything together with its tangy, savory depth. It’s a dish that’s as visually stunning as it is delicious. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or a casual gathering, this pasta salad will definitely impress!

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

250 g shell or rotini pasta
Salt, for pasta water

For the Roasted Grapes:

2 cups seedless red or black grapes, halved
1 tbsp olive oil
Pinch of salt
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For the Cheese:

150 g brie cheese, rind removed and cut into 1 cm cubes (or camembert)

For the Walnuts:

1/2 cup walnut halves
1 tbsp honey
1/2 tbsp unsalted butter
Pinch of salt

For the Honey Vinaigrette:

2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1 tbsp honey
Salt and pepper, to taste

For Garnish:

2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Roast the Grapes: Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Toss the halved grapes with 1 tbsp olive oil, a pinch of salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Spread the grapes on a parchment-lined baking sheet and roast for 15-18 minutes, or until the grapes are soft and slightly caramelized. Let them cool once roasted.
Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse briefly under cool water to stop the cooking process.
Toast the Walnuts: In a small skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the walnut halves and toast for about 2 minutes. Drizzle the walnuts with honey and a pinch of salt, stirring for 2-3 minutes until the walnuts are glossy and sticky. Transfer the toasted walnuts to parchment paper to cool, then roughly chop them.
Make the Honey Vinaigrette: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and freshly ground black pepper until well combined.
Assemble the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, roasted grapes, brie cubes, and candied walnuts. Drizzle with the prepared vinaigrette and gently toss to coat.
Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve at room temperature.

Servings and Timing

Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 portions

Variations

Cheese Variations: If you prefer, you can substitute camembert for brie cheese for a slightly different flavor profile.
Greens: Add baby arugula to the salad for extra freshness and color.
Lighter Version: For a lighter option, skip the candied walnuts and use simply toasted walnuts to reduce the sweetness.
Vegan Option: Use a plant-based cheese alternative and a vegan-friendly vinaigrette to make this salad vegan.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. This salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be eaten cold.
Reheating: This pasta salad is best served at room temperature or cold. You can let it sit out for 10 minutes before serving to bring it back to room temp if you prefer it that way.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare most of the components ahead of time. Roast the grapes and toast the walnuts a day before and store them in the fridge. Just assemble the salad and add the vinaigrette shortly before serving.

Can I use other fruits besides grapes?

Yes! Roasted figs, pears, or apples would work wonderfully in this salad. The key is to roast the fruit to bring out its sweetness and enhance the overall flavor.

Can I make this salad gluten-free?

Yes, simply substitute the regular pasta with gluten-free pasta, and the salad will be gluten-free.

Can I use a different nut instead of walnuts?

Absolutely! Pecans or almonds would be great alternatives to walnuts. You can even try toasted pine nuts for a different flavor.

Can I skip the cheese to make this dish dairy-free?

If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, simply leave out the brie and replace it with a dairy-free cheese alternative or omit it entirely for a lighter salad.

What kind of pasta should I use?

Shells or rotini work best in this recipe because their shape holds the vinaigrette and roasted grapes nicely. However, you can use any pasta you prefer.

Can I freeze this salad?

It’s not recommended to freeze this salad due to the creaminess of the brie and the delicate texture of the roasted grapes. It’s best enjoyed fresh or stored in the fridge for up to 2 days.

How do I add extra flavor to the vinaigrette?

For more depth, you can add a little finely minced shallot or garlic to the vinaigrette, or even a squeeze of lemon juice for extra brightness.

Can I serve this salad warm?

While the salad is usually served at room temperature or chilled, you can serve it warm immediately after assembling if you prefer.

Conclusion

Roasted Grape Brie Pasta Salad is a flavorful and sophisticated dish that brings together sweet, savory, and tangy elements for a delightful meal. The roasted grapes and creamy brie are perfectly balanced by the crunch of the walnuts and the tangy honey vinaigrette, making this pasta salad a standout at any gathering or dinner table. Whether you serve it as a side dish, a light lunch, or a game day snack, it’s sure to impress your guests with its unique flavors and textures.