Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a healthy, flavorful, and satisfying meal that’s surprisingly easy to whip up? Then look no further! This Mediterranean Kale Pasta Salad is your answer. It's a vibrant, delicious dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a potluck contribution, or a light lunch. The best part? Many of the ingredients can be easily sourced from your local Sam's Club, making your shopping trip a breeze. Let's dive into this refreshing and healthy recipe!
Ingredients: A Sam's Club-Friendly Shopping List
This recipe is designed to be easily adaptable to what you find on your Sam's Club shelves, but feel free to adjust quantities based on your needs and preferences.
- 1 pound pasta (rotini, farfalle, or your favorite shape) – Sam’s Club often has great bulk buys on pasta!
- 1 bunch of kale, stems removed and chopped – Look for pre-washed kale for extra convenience.
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 (14-ounce) can chickpeas, rinsed and drained – Sam’s Club’s Kirkland brand is a reliable choice.
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese – A fantastic addition, easily found in the deli section.
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup olive oil – Sam's Club offers various sizes of high-quality olive oil.
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions: A Step-by-Step Guide to Deliciousness
- Cook the Pasta: Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking. Set aside to cool.
- Massage the Kale: In a large bowl, gently massage the chopped kale with a tablespoon of olive oil. This helps to tenderize the kale and make it less bitter. Let it sit for about 5 minutes.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked pasta, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, chickpeas, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese to the bowl with the kale.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Dress the Salad: Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetable mixture. Toss gently to combine, ensuring all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This also allows the kale to soften further. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Tips and Tricks for Pasta Perfection
- For extra flavor: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing for a little heat.
- Make it a complete meal: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for extra protein.
- Customize it: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini.
- Prep ahead: Prepare the dressing and chop the vegetables ahead of time to save time on busy weeknights.
Variations: Beyond the Classic
- Lemon Herb Variation: Substitute the red wine vinegar with lemon juice and add fresh herbs like basil or parsley.
- Spicy Mediterranean: Add a chopped jalapeño to the salad for a spicy kick.
- Creamy Mediterranean: Stir in a dollop of plain Greek yogurt or ricotta cheese to the dressing for a creamier texture.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving - Approximate)
This recipe provides a good source of fiber, protein, and vitamins. The exact nutritional content will vary based on the specific ingredients used and serving size. Consult a nutrition calculator for more precise values.
This Mediterranean Kale Pasta Salad is a simple yet incredibly flavorful dish that's perfect for any occasion. The combination of fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors makes it a truly satisfying and healthy meal option. Enjoy!