Introduction
This delightful pasta salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish perfect for gatherings, picnics, or as a light lunch. With the combination of tender pasta, fresh vegetables, tangy feta cheese, and a zesty dressing, this salad is sure to please your palate. Easy to prepare and full of flavor, it’s the perfect addition to any meal.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Pasta:
500g (1 lb) bow tie pasta (farfalle) or other short/medium pasta
Add-ins (approximately 7 cups total):
2 cucumbers, halved lengthwise and finely sliced (~17cm/7″ long, sliced 2mm / 1/16″, using a mandolin)
3 cups (500g) cherry or grape tomatoes, halved (or chop 4 regular tomatoes)
1/3 cup roughly chopped Kalamata olives (3/4 cup whole pitted or 1/2 cup sliced, then chop)
200g (7 oz) Greek feta, cut into 6mm (1/4″) batons (they will crumble a bit, this is good)
1 packed cup basil leaves, torn by hand
Dressing:
1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
1/3 cup apple cider vinegar
2 garlic cloves, minced using garlic press or very finely minced using a knife
2 teaspoons Dijon mustard (can omit)
2 teaspoons honey (substitute with maple syrup or 1 teaspoon sugar)
1 1/2 teaspoons Italian herbs mix (or Herbs de Provence or oregano)
3/4 teaspoon cooking salt / kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour (including cooling)
Yield: Serves 6-8
This flavorful pasta salad can be prepared in advance, making it a great choice for busy days or entertaining guests. Enjoy the fresh ingredients and bright flavors that come together to create a dish that’s both satisfying and delicious!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Dressing:
– Combine all dressing ingredients in a large jar.
– Shake well until fully mixed.
– The flavor should be sharp; it will mellow once combined with the pasta.
Cook the Pasta:
– Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
– Add the pasta and cook until it is very soft, about 2–3 minutes longer than the time indicated on the package.
– Taste to ensure doneness, as package instructions can vary.
– Overcooking slightly ensures the pasta remains tender when cooled.
Combine Pasta with Dressing:
– Drain the pasta thoroughly, shaking off excess water.
– Transfer the hot pasta to a large bowl.
– Shake the dressing again and pour about two-thirds over the pasta.
– Toss well to combine.
– Allow the pasta to absorb the dressing as it cools for approximately 40 minutes.
Add Remaining Ingredients:
– Once the pasta has cooled, add the halved tomatoes, sliced cucumbers, chopped olives, and feta batons to the bowl.
– Pour the remaining dressing over the mixture.
– Toss thoroughly to combine all ingredients.
Incorporate Basil and Serve:
– Add the torn basil leaves to the salad.
– Gently toss again to distribute the basil evenly.
– Transfer the pasta salad to a serving bowl.
– Serve and enjoy!
Notes
Ingredient Substitutions:
– You can modify the types of pasta according to your preference.
– Feel free to replace Kalamata olives with green olives or omit them if desired.
Storage Instructions:
– Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad may lose some crunch over time.
Serving Suggestions:
– This pasta salad is great as a side dish for barbecues or picnics and can be served alongside grilled meats or seafood.
Cook techniques
Preparing the Dressing
Combine all dressing ingredients in a large jar and shake well until fully mixed to ensure an even distribution of flavors.
Cooking Pasta Properly
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook it slightly longer than the package instructions for tenderness after cooling. Taste to check doneness.
Combining Pasta with Dressing
Drain the cooked pasta thoroughly and transfer it to a large bowl while it’s still warm. Toss it with a portion of the dressing to enhance flavor absorption.
Adding Fresh Ingredients
Once cooled, incorporate the halved tomatoes, sliced cucumbers, chopped olives, and feta into the pasta. This ensures the salad maintains a fresh texture.
Incorporating Herbs
Tear the basil leaves by hand and gently toss them with the salad to distribute the herb flavor without bruising the leaves.
FAQ
Can I use different types of pasta for this recipe?
Yes, other short or medium pasta types can be used, but ensure to adjust cooking times as needed.
How can I make the dressing less tangy?
If the dressing is too tangy, consider reducing the amount of vinegar or adding more olive oil to balance the flavors.
Is it necessary to let the pasta cool before adding the other ingredients?
Yes, allowing the pasta to cool helps prevent the vegetables from wilting and enhances the overall texture of the salad.
What can I substitute for feta cheese?
If you’re looking for a substitute, you can use goat cheese, ricotta, or even a vegan cheese alternative.
How long can I store the pasta salad?
The pasta salad can typically be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Conclusion
This delightful pasta salad combines fresh vegetables, creamy feta, and a zesty dressing to create a refreshing dish perfect for any occasion. The combination of flavors and textures make it a satisfying meal or side dish that can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature. Customizable and festive, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser at your next gathering.
More recipe suggestions and combinations
Chickpea Mediterranean Pasta Salad
Add canned chickpeas for protein, and include artichoke hearts and roasted red peppers for extra flavor.
Grilled Chicken and Pasta
Incorporate grilled chicken strips for a more filling option, pairing well with the same dressing and veggies.
Sun-Dried Tomato and Spinach Pasta
Mix in sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach for a vibrant twist, along with diced provolone cheese for an extra creamy texture.
Caprese Pasta Salad
Replace Kalamata olives with fresh mozzarella balls and add a drizzle of balsamic reduction for a classic Caprese touch.
Vegetarian Pesto Pasta
Toss in some basil pesto instead of the olive oil and vinegar dressing, along with roasted zucchini and bell peppers for a hearty vegetarian option.
Mexican-inspired Pasta Salad
Add black beans, sweet corn, and diced jalapeños. Replace the dressing with a lime vinaigrette for a zesty southwestern flavor.
