Pasta Salad

Every summer, I find myself craving a refreshing dish that brings back memories of picnics and family gatherings, and that’s where my love for Pasta Salad comes in. This vibrant, colorful dish is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors. I remember one particular sunny afternoon, when I decided to whip up a big bowl of Pasta Salad for a friendly get-together in the backyard. The sun was shining, the laughter was flowing, and everyone was eager to dig into something light yet satisfying. As I tossed together the ingredients, the aroma of fresh basil and zesty lemon filled the air, immediately lifting everyone’s spirits.

What I adore about this Pasta Salad is its versatility. You can toss in whatever fresh vegetables you have on hand, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser. The way the whole-grain penne pasta absorbs the tangy dressing and mingles with the juicy cherry tomatoes and creamy feta cheese is simply divine. Not to mention, it’s a perfect dish for meal prep; you can make it ahead of time and let all those wonderful flavors develop in the fridge. Each bite is like a burst of summer in my mouth!

So next time you’re looking for a dish that brings smiles and a taste of sunshine, don’t hesitate to make this Pasta Salad. It’s not just food; it’s about the connections we make around the table and the memories that linger long after the last bite. Let’s dive into how you can create this delicious salad that’s sure to be a hit at your next gathering!

What to Gather for Pasta Salad

When it comes to making this Pasta Salad, the ingredients play a crucial role. Each component complements the others, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The star of the dish is the whole-grain penne pasta, which provides a hearty base. Then there’s the bright acidity from the lemon juice and the rich creaminess from the feta cheese. Let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need for this delightful salad!

• 4 ounces whole-grain penne pasta: This serves as the foundation of your salad, offering a satisfying bite.
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil: A high-quality oil adds richness and depth of flavor to the dressing.
• 1 lemon, juiced: Fresh lemon juice brightens the dish and adds a vibrant zest.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to elevate the dish.
• 1/2 teaspoon oregano: A touch of dried oregano brings an earthy flavor to the mix.
• 2 tablespoons basil pesto: Adds herbaceous notes and enhances the overall flavor profile.
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: These juicy gems add freshness and sweetness.
• 1 tablespoon capers: For a salty, briny bite that contrasts beautifully with the sweet tomatoes.
• 1 sprig fresh parsley: A sprinkle of parsley brightens the dish and adds color.
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese: Creamy and tangy, feta makes everything better!

Preparation Steps for Pasta Salad

Making this Pasta Salad is as enjoyable as eating it! The steps are straightforward and allow you to savor the process of preparing a delicious meal. Just follow along, and you’ll have a beautiful salad ready in no time.

1. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the whole-grain penne pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente, which usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes. It’s important not to overcook the pasta; you want it to have a slight bite!
2. After the pasta has cooked, drain it in a colander and rinse it under cold water. This stops the cooking process and helps prevent the pasta from becoming mushy. Set the rinsed pasta aside to cool.
3. In a small bowl, combine the extra-virgin olive oil and lemon juice. Season with salt, pepper, and oregano. Whisk together until well blended. This dressing is what brings the salad to life!
4. In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta, along with the dressing you just made. Toss the pasta gently to coat it evenly with the dressing.
5. Next, add the basil pesto, halved cherry tomatoes, capers, and the leaves of fresh parsley to the bowl. Mix everything together until well combined, ensuring every ingredient is coated in that lovely dressing.
6. Take a moment to taste your salad. Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Your palate knows best, so trust your instincts!
7. Once seasoned to perfection, serve the Pasta Salad in a large bowl or individual plates. Crumble the feta cheese generously on top, allowing it to melt slightly into the warm pasta.
8. Optionally, garnish with additional parsley leaves for a pop of color and freshness. It’s all about presentation!
9. Finally, allow the salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour before serving. This resting time lets the flavors meld beautifully.
10. Enjoy your delicious Pasta Salad with friends and family, and watch as they rave about your culinary skills!

Tips and Tricks about Pasta Salad

Here are some incredibly helpful tips to take your Pasta Salad to the next level. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned pro, these tricks will enhance your experience.

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It will keep well for about 3 to 4 days.
• Freezing: It’s best not to freeze this salad as the texture of the pasta and fresh ingredients may deteriorate.
• Pairing: This salad pairs beautifully with grilled vegetables, chicken, or crusty bread.
• Make it vegan: To make a vegan version, simply omit the feta cheese or substitute it with a plant-based alternative.
• Mix in proteins: To make the salad heartier, add in your favorite proteins such as chickpeas or grilled chicken.

How to Enjoy Pasta Salad

There are countless wonderful ways to serve your Pasta Salad! Here are some delightful serving suggestions:

• Picnic Delight: Bring this salad to your next picnic. It’s easy to pack and serves beautifully cold.
• Barbecue Side: Pair it with grilled meats or vegetables at your summer barbecues; it complements those smoky flavors perfectly.
• Light Lunch: Serve it as a light lunch alongside a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
• Potluck Star: This Pasta Salad is a crowd-pleaser, making it a perfect dish to bring to potlucks or gatherings.
• Seasonal Variations: Don’t hesitate to switch up the ingredients based on the season—add roasted butternut squash in the fall or asparagus in the spring!

FAQ

Conclusion

In summary, Pasta Salad is a delightful dish that brings joy and flavor to any table. Its combination of fresh ingredients, vibrant colors, and satisfying textures make it a go-to recipe for gatherings or a simple family dinner. I encourage you to give this recipe a try. It’s not only simple to make but also incredibly rewarding when you see the smiles it brings to those you share it with. Enjoy the process, and most importantly, enjoy every flavorful bite!

Pasta Salad

The ultimate summer dish, Pasta Salad combines whole-grain penne with fresh vegetables and a zesty dressing for a refreshing meal. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or meal prep, this easy recipe is a must-try!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Course Salads, Side Dishes

Cuisine Mediterranean

Servings 3 servings

Calories 280 kcal

Equipment

• Large Pot

Ingredients

  

• 4 ounces whole-grain penne pasta
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 lemon, juiced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon oregano
• 2 tablespoons basil pesto
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 tablespoon capers
• 1 sprig fresh parsley
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese

Instructions

 

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the whole-grain penne pasta according to package instructions. Rinse with cold water, drain, and set aside.
• To make the dressing, combine the extra-virgin olive oil and lemon juice in a small bowl and season with salt, pepper, and oregano.
• In a large bowl, combine the dressing with the cooked pasta, basil pesto, halved cherry tomatoes, capers, and parsley leaves. Toss well until combined, and season with more salt and pepper.
• Serve the Pasta Salad in a bowl and crumble the feta cheese on top. Garnish with additional parsley leaves and serve!

Notes

• Go Hard: Cook your pasta al dente so that your finished salad doesn’t go all mushy. Rinse the pasta in cold water once it’s done.
• Just Whisk It: For a well-blended dressing, use a whisk when mixing the extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, and basil pesto.
• Marinatoes: Marinate the cherry tomatoes in the lemon-pesto dressing for 10-15 minutes before adding them to the salad.
• Chill Out: Let this salad chill in the fridge for at least an hour before serving for enhanced flavors.

Keyword easy pasta salad, healthy pasta salad, Mediterranean pasta salad, summer salad recipe

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Meet Camila Rivera

I’m Camila, and I believe the very best meals are the ones that bring the whole family together. My passion is taking classic, beloved dishes and adding a spicy or zesty twist to wake up your palate. I have cooked, tweaked, and taste-tested this recipe right here in my own home kitchen to ensure it works perfectly for you. I hope you enjoy every single bite let me know how it turns out!