Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and delicious dinner recipe that the whole family will love? Look no further! This vibrant tri-color rotini pasta salad is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. It's perfect for a weeknight dinner, a potluck contribution, or a light lunch. This recipe offers a fantastic blend of textures and flavors, making it a crowd-pleaser every time. Get ready to experience a burst of freshness in every bite!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound tri-color rotini pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
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Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the tri-color rotini and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking. Set aside.
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Prepare the Vegetables: While the pasta is cooking, prepare the vegetables. Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber, thinly slice the red onion, and halve the Kalamata olives. Chopping everything in advance keeps the cooking process efficient.
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Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, Kalamata olives, feta cheese, and basil.
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Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
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Dress the Salad: Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently to combine. Make sure all the pasta is evenly coated.
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Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This step is especially helpful if you're preparing the salad in advance. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Cooking Tips for the Best Tri-Color Rotini Pasta Salad:
- For a richer flavor, use high-quality olive oil.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing for a touch of heat.
- Feel free to add other vegetables you enjoy, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or artichoke hearts.
- If you don't have feta cheese, you can substitute with another cheese, such as Parmesan or goat cheese.
- To make this a complete meal, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for extra protein.
Variations:
- Mediterranean Twist: Add crumbled halloumi cheese and sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean flair.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of chili flakes into the dressing for a spicy twist.
- Creamy Delight: Add a dollop of plain Greek yogurt to the dressing for a creamier texture.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 10-12g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 40-45g
This easy and delicious tri-color rotini pasta salad is perfect for any occasion. It's a healthy, satisfying meal that's sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy your homemade culinary creation!