Pasta salad is a classic for a reason – it’s versatile, refreshing, and perfect for any occasion. But let’s elevate the classic with a vibrant twist! This sun-dried tomato pasta salad recipe delivers a burst of Mediterranean sunshine to your plate, offering a delicious and healthy meal that's quick to prepare. Whether you're looking for easy recipes for a weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish for your next gathering, this one's a winner. This recipe is packed with flavor and texture, making it a fantastic addition to your collection of homemade cooking ideas.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound pasta (rotini, farfalle, or your favorite shape)
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, oil-packed, drained and chopped
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
-
Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool slightly.
-
Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
-
Combine the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sun-dried tomatoes, olives, feta cheese, red onion, and basil.
-
Dress the salad: Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently to coat evenly.
-
Chill and serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This step is crucial for a truly delicious pasta salad. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Salad:
- Choose your pasta: While rotini and farfalle are excellent choices for holding the dressing and other ingredients, feel free to experiment with other shapes. Penne, fusilli, or even shells work great too!
- Don't overcook the pasta: Al dente pasta is key to a good pasta salad. Overcooked pasta will become mushy and unpleasant.
- Add protein: Boost the protein content by adding grilled chicken, chickpeas, or white beans.
- Customize your veggies: Add other vegetables such as bell peppers, cucumbers, or artichoke hearts for added flavor and nutrients.
Variations:
- Spicy kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing for a spicy twist.
- Lemon zest: A little lemon zest brightens up the flavors beautifully.
- Different cheese: Goat cheese or Parmesan cheese are delicious alternatives to feta.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This is a healthy and delicious meal option. The nutritional information will vary slightly depending on the specific ingredients used. For a precise calculation, use a nutrition calculator with your exact ingredients and serving size. However, generally, expect this salad to be a good source of fiber and protein, relatively low in fat, and a good source of vitamins and minerals from the vegetables and cheese.
This sun-dried tomato pasta salad is a perfect example of how easy it is to create delicious and healthy meals at home. It’s a versatile recipe that allows for customization based on your preferences and available ingredients. So, gather your ingredients, put on some music, and enjoy the process of creating this fantastic quick dinner idea! It’s a surefire way to impress your family and friends with your homemade cooking skills, whether it's a casual weeknight meal or a more elaborate gathering. Enjoy!