Pasta Salad

This Pasta Salad recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a summer barbecue, a picnic, or simply a refreshing side dish to accompany your main meal. It’s quick, easy to prepare, and bursting with flavors that everyone will enjoy. With fresh vegetables and tangy feta cheese, this salad not only looks vibrant but also tastes delightful. You can whip it up in just 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy days or last-minute gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This pasta salad can be made in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for lunch or dinner.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies or proteins to suit your taste.
• Great for Meal Prep: It keeps well in the fridge and makes for easy lunches throughout the week.
• Colorful Presentation: The mix of colorful ingredients makes this salad visually appealing for any gathering.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of Italian dressing and feta cheese adds a delicious punch to every bite.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Pasta Salad, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will streamline your cooking process and ensure everything is prepared efficiently.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Colander
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Necessary for boiling the pasta evenly and ensuring it cooks properly.
• Colander: Essential for draining the pasta after cooking; it helps cool the pasta quickly.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables.
• Sharp knife: Important for precise cuts of vegetables, making prep easier and quicker.

Ingredients

This quick and easy pasta salad is a refreshing side dish you can make in 30 minutes.

Pasta

• 16 ounces rotini (or any other pasta shape)

Vegetables

• 1 medium cucumber (chopped)
• 1 pint grape tomatoes (halved)
• 1 small bell pepper (chopped)
• ¼ cup finely diced red onion

Dressing & Cheese

• 1 cup Italian dressing (see notes for homemade)
• ⅔ cup feta cheese (crumbled)

Extras

• ¼ cup sliced black olives
• 3 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• Salt and black pepper (to taste)

How to Make Pasta Salad

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
2. Add a big pinch of salt along with the rotini pasta.
3. Cook according to package directions until al dente.
4. Drain the pasta using a colander and rinse under cold water to cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

1. While the pasta cools, chop the cucumber, halve the grape tomatoes, chop the bell pepper, and dice the red onion into small pieces.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

1. In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta along with all prepared vegetables.
2. Pour in Italian dressing, feta cheese, sliced olives, and chopped parsley.
3. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 4: Serve

1. Toss everything together until well combined.
2. You can serve immediately or chill in the fridge for about an hour before enjoying.

This Pasta Salad serves up to 12 people, making it great for sharing at gatherings or enjoying throughout the week!

How to Serve Pasta Salad

Pasta salad is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your pasta salad experience.

As a Main Dish

• Pair with grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal.
• Add extra protein like chickpeas or beans for a vegetarian option.

At a Picnic

• Serve in individual containers for easy transport.
• Pack with crusty bread for a complete picnic lunch.

For Meal Prep

• Divide into portioned containers for grab-and-go lunches.
• Store in the fridge and enjoy throughout the week.

As a Side Dish

• Complement with grilled meats at barbecues or cookouts.
• Serve alongside sandwiches for a light lunch option.

With Fresh Herbs

• Garnish with additional fresh herbs like basil or dill for flavor.
• Try adding microgreens for an upscale touch.

How to Perfect Pasta Salad

Making the perfect pasta salad is all about balancing flavors and textures. Here are some tips to ensure your dish is a hit every time.

• Use al dente pasta: Cooking pasta just right will keep it from becoming mushy when mixed with dressing.
• Cool the pasta quickly: Rinsing under cold water stops cooking, ensuring a firm texture.
• Mix in fresh ingredients: Adding crisp vegetables enhances flavor and adds color to your pasta salad.
• Let it marinate: Allowing the salad to sit for at least 30 minutes helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste before serving and adjust salt, pepper, or dressing as needed for balanced flavor.
• Experiment with dressings: Try different dressings like balsamic vinaigrette or yogurt-based options for variety.

Best Side Dishes for Pasta Salad

Pasta salad pairs well with various sides that complement its flavors. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Grilled Vegetables: Charred bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus add depth and smoky flavor.
2. Garlic Bread: Crunchy, buttery garlic bread is perfect for scooping up leftover dressing from your plate.
3. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and balances the rich flavors of the pasta salad.
4. Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil on skewers make a delightful finger food option.
5. Roasted Potatoes: Seasoned roasted potatoes offer a hearty side that complements the freshness of pasta salad.
6. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad adds sweetness and refreshing contrast, making it ideal for summer meals.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making pasta salad, it’s easy to overlook some important details. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking pasta too long makes it mushy. Follow package instructions and taste test a minute before the time is up.
• Skipping the rinsing step: Not rinsing cooked pasta can lead to a sticky texture. Rinse under cold water to cool it down and prevent clumping.
• Neglecting seasoning: Forgetting to season can leave your salad bland. Always taste and adjust salt and pepper before serving.
• Using low-quality dressing: A poor-quality dressing can ruin the flavor. Opt for homemade or high-quality Italian dressing for the best taste.
• Adding ingredients too early: Mixing in fresh veggies too soon can cause them to wilt. Combine everything just before serving or chilling.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Pasta salad will stay fresh for about 3-5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Pasta Salad

• Use freezer-safe containers: If you want to freeze, use containers that are safe for freezing.
• Keep it separate: Consider freezing dressing separately if using fresh vegetables, as they may not thaw well.

Reheating Pasta Salad

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), spread the salad on a baking sheet, and warm for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Pasta Salad?

Pasta salad is a dish made with cooked pasta mixed with various ingredients like vegetables, cheeses, and dressings. It’s often served cold or at room temperature.

How do I make Pasta Salad more flavorful?

To enhance flavor, add fresh herbs, spices, or a splash of vinegar. Experiment with different dressings like balsamic or creamy options for variety.

Can I customize my Pasta Salad?

Absolutely! You can add proteins like chicken or tuna, incorporate different vegetables, or try various cheeses according to your preference.

Is Pasta Salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes! Pasta salad is perfect for meal prep as it keeps well in the fridge and tastes even better after marinating overnight.

How long does leftover Pasta Salad last?

Leftover pasta salad can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-5 days when kept in an airtight container.

Final Thoughts

This quick and easy pasta salad is not only refreshing but also versatile. You can customize it with your favorite ingredients or dressings. Whether as a side dish or a main meal, this recipe is bound to please everyone at your table. Give it a try!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Pasta Salad

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 12 people 1x

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Description

This Pasta Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish perfect for any gathering, from summer barbecues to picnics. Bursting with fresh vegetables and tangy feta cheese, it’s not only visually appealing but also packed with flavor. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up this quick and easy recipe that serves up to 12 people. Versatile and customizable, you can add your favorite ingredients or proteins to create a unique dish that suits your taste. Enjoy it as a side dish or make it the star of your meal prep. Delight your guests with this delicious Pasta Salad that promises to impress!

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Ingredients

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• 16 ounces rotini pasta
• 1 medium cucumber, chopped
• 1 pint grape tomatoes, halved
• 1 small bell pepper, chopped
• ¼ cup finely diced red onion
• 1 cup Italian dressing
• ⅔ cup crumbled feta cheese
• Optional: black olives, fresh parsley, salt, and pepper

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Instructions

1. Cook the rotini in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and rinse under cold water.
2. While the pasta cools, chop the cucumber, halve the grape tomatoes, dice the bell pepper, and onion.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta and all chopped vegetables.
4. Add Italian dressing, feta cheese, olives (if using), parsley, and season with salt and pepper.
5. Toss well to combine. Serve immediately or refrigerate for about an hour before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 8g
• Cholesterol: 20mg