If you’re looking for a dish that’s both refreshing and satisfying, this Italian pasta salad is the perfect choice. Bursting with flavors from fresh vegetables and a tangy dressing, it’s an ideal side for summer barbecues or a light lunch. Easy to prepare and customizable, this recipe will quickly become a favorite at your dining table. Let’s dive into the ingredients and preparation!
Ingredients
– 2 cups rotini pasta
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup bell peppers (red, yellow, green), diced
– 1 cup cucumber, diced
– ½ cup red onion, finely chopped
– ½ cup black olives, sliced
– ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
– ¼ cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields about 4 servings. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, with no cooking time required, as the pasta is boiled in advance.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 cup) contains approximately:
– Calories: 280
– Protein: 8g
– Fat: 15g
– Carbohydrates: 30g
– Fiber: 3g
This nutritional information is based on one serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Begin by boiling water in a large pot.
2. Add 2 cups of rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to cool.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, cucumber, and red onion.
5. Add the sliced black olives and crumbled feta cheese to the bowl.
6. In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
7. Pour the dressing over the pasta salad mixture.
8. Toss everything together until well combined.
9. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
10. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Alternative Ingredients
You can easily substitute ingredients in this salad. For example, use whole wheat pasta for a healthier option, or swap in your favorite vegetables like spinach, artichokes, or even roasted vegetables for added flavor.
Serving and Pairings
This Italian pasta salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, fish, or as a standalone dish for a light lunch. It’s also a great addition to a picnic or potluck, bringing a burst of color and flavor to any table.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This salad is best enjoyed cold and doesn’t require reheating. It can be frozen, but the texture of the vegetables may change upon thawing.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not cooling the pasta before mixing can result in soggy veggies.
- Overcooking the pasta will make it mushy.
- Forgetting to season the dressing can leave your salad bland.
- Using stale or old vegetables affects the freshness of the dish.
- Not letting the salad chill can prevent flavors from developing.
Helpful Tips
- Use high-quality olive oil for the best flavor.
- Try adding protein like grilled chicken or chickpeas for a heartier meal.
- Adjust the dressing according to your taste preferences.
- Experiment with different herbs for added freshness.
- Keep extra dressing on the side for those who like it saucier.
FAQs
Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this salad a day in advance. Just keep it refrigerated, and the flavors will develop beautifully overnight.
What types of pasta work best for this recipe?
Rotini, fusilli, or penne are great choices as they hold the dressing well. Avoid long pasta types that can be harder to mix.
Is this pasta salad gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, substitute regular pasta with a gluten-free variety made from rice or quinoa.
How can I make this salad more filling?
Add protein such as grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to make it a complete meal.
Can I use different vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize with whatever fresh vegetables you have on hand, like zucchini, carrots, or arugula.
Conclusion
This Italian pasta salad recipe is not only simple to prepare but also incredibly versatile and delicious. Whether served as a side dish or a light meal, its vibrant colors and fresh flavors are sure to impress. Enjoy it at your next gathering or as a delightful lunch any day of the week!
Italian Pasta Salad
Ingredients
- 2 cups rotini pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1 cup bell peppers diced
- 1 cup cucumber diced
- ½ cup red onion finely chopped
- ½ cup black olives sliced
- ½ cup feta cheese crumbled
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Boil water in a large pot.
- Add rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, cucumber, and red onion.
- Add sliced black olives and crumbled feta cheese.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta salad mixture.
- Toss everything together until well combined.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
