Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this *pasta salad recipe*! It’s truly a celebration of freshness and color that I whip up for everything from backyard barbecues to cozy family dinners. There’s just something magical about a bowl of vibrant pasta, bursting with juicy cherry tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, and tangy feta—it’s like summer on a plate! I remember the first time I made it for a potluck; I barely got a chance to serve it before it disappeared! Trust me, this salad is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can toss in whatever veggies you have on hand or switch up the dressings. It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel good—both inside and out. So grab your ingredients and let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
- 2 cups of cooked pasta (I love using rotini or penne for that perfect bite!)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (these add a burst of sweetness!)
- 1 cup cucumber, diced (for that lovely crunch)
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped (it adds a nice kick, but feel free to use green onions if you prefer milder flavor)
- 1/2 cup bell pepper, diced (any color works, but I adore the sweetness of red or yellow)
- 1/4 cup olives, sliced (black or green, depending on your taste!)
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (this is the secret to making it extra delicious!)
- 1/4 cup olive oil (for that rich, smooth dressing)
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar (adds a tangy twist that brightens everything up!)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (for that Mediterranean flair)
- Salt and pepper to taste (don’t be shy with the seasoning!)
How to Prepare the Pasta Salad Recipe
Alright, let’s dive into making this delightful pasta salad! It’s super simple, and I promise you’ll be amazed at how quickly it comes together. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a colorful, refreshing dish in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First things first, cook your pasta according to the package instructions. I usually aim for al dente, as it holds up better in the salad. Once it’s done, drain it and let it cool for a bit—this will help the dressing cling better later!
- While the pasta is cooling, let’s chop up those fresh veggies! In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, finely chopped red onion, and bell pepper. Don’t rush this part; take a moment to marvel at all the beautiful colors!
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. This dressing is where the magic happens, so make sure it’s well mixed!
- Now comes the fun part—pour that delicious dressing over the pasta and veggies. Gently toss everything together until everything is nicely coated. Be careful not to mush the tomatoes!
- Finally, let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This step is crucial as it allows all those fabulous flavors to meld together. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!
Why You’ll Love This Pasta Salad Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare—perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings!
- Vibrant colors and fresh ingredients make it as beautiful as it is delicious.
- Nutritious and filling, with plenty of veggies to boost your health.
- Versatile! Customize with your favorite vegetables, proteins, or even different cheeses.
- Great for meal prep—make it a day ahead and enjoy the flavors as they develop!
- Ideal for any occasion, from summer picnics to holiday feasts.
Tips for Success
To make this pasta salad truly shine, don’t be afraid to play around with the ingredients! If you’re not a fan of feta, try crumbled goat cheese or even mozzarella for a creamier texture. For added protein, toss in some grilled chicken or chickpeas—yum! A splash of fresh lemon juice can brighten the flavors even more, so consider adding that to your dressing. And here’s a little secret: letting the salad sit for a few hours or even overnight lets all those flavors mingle beautifully. Just remember to give it a good toss before serving to refresh those vibrant colors!
Variations of the Pasta Salad Recipe
The beauty of this pasta salad is its versatility! You can truly make it your own by swapping in different ingredients. For a delightful twist, try adding some roasted veggies like zucchini or asparagus—yum! If you’re craving a protein boost, shredded rotisserie chicken or chickpeas work perfectly. Feeling adventurous? Toss in some artichoke hearts or sun-dried tomatoes for an extra Mediterranean flair!
Don’t forget about the dressing! A pesto or balsamic vinaigrette can completely change the flavor profile. And if you want a bit of a kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the mix! With so many options, you can enjoy a new version of this salad every time you make it. So go ahead, get creative, and let your taste buds guide you!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk numbers! While I’m no nutritionist, I’ve crunched some estimated values for this delightful pasta salad recipe. Each serving (about 1 cup) packs around 250 calories, making it a satisfying choice without going overboard. You’ll also find about 15g of fat, with 3g being saturated fat. There’s 6g of protein in there too, which is great for keeping you full! Plus, with 25g of carbohydrates and 3g of fiber, it’s a well-rounded dish. Remember, these values are estimates and can vary based on exact ingredients. So, feel free to adjust as you please, and enjoy every delicious bite!
FAQ Section
How long does this pasta salad last in the fridge?
This pasta salad can last up to 3-5 days in the refrigerator, making it perfect for meal prep! Just make sure to keep it in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, I recommend making it a day in advance. The flavors develop beautifully as it sits, and you’ll end up with an even tastier dish!
Are there any dietary adjustments I can make?
Definitely! This salad is quite flexible. For a gluten-free option, simply use gluten-free pasta. If you want to keep it vegan, skip the feta cheese and use a plant-based dressing. You can also add more veggies for added nutrition!
What can I serve with this pasta salad?
This pasta salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, a fresh baguette, or even as a side for a hearty soup. It’s a great addition to any meal!
Can I freeze leftover pasta salad?
While I don’t recommend freezing it, you can try it! The texture of the pasta and veggies may change after thawing, but it should still taste great. If you decide to freeze, enjoy it within a month for the best quality.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your pasta salad experience, consider pairing it with some grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein boost—trust me, it’s a match made in heaven! A crusty baguette or garlic bread on the side is perfect for soaking up any leftover dressing. If you’re feeling a bit fancy, serve it alongside a refreshing cucumber and yogurt dip for a Mediterranean twist. And don’t forget, a cool glass of lemonade or iced tea complements this dish beautifully, making it a delightful meal for any occasion. Enjoy every bite!
Print
Pasta Salad Recipe: 5 Fresh Ingredients for a Perfect Dish
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A fresh and colorful pasta salad perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 cups of cooked pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and cool.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, bell pepper, olives, and feta cheese.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss to combine.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Feel free to add your favorite vegetables.
- This salad can be made a day ahead.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: pasta salad recipe
