Introduction
Pasta salad is a versatile and colorful dish that is perfect for gatherings, picnics, or a healthy meal option at home. This rotini pasta salad is packed with vibrant vegetables and crumbly feta cheese, all brought together by a zesty homemade dressing. Whether served as a side dish or a main course, it’s a refreshing and satisfying choice.
Ingredients
12 ounces (4 cups) dry Rotini pasta
1 tablespoon kosher salt
2 cups halved cherry tomatoes
2 cups diced mini cucumbers (also called Persian cucumbers)
1 cup diced red bell peppers
1 cup diced orange bell peppers
1 cup diced yellow bell peppers
1 cup crumbled feta cheese
Dressing
½ cup extra virgin olive oil
3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
2 tablespoons fresh minced basil
1 tablespoon minced garlic
½ teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
10 minutes
Total Time
25 minutes
Yield
Serves 6-8
This pasta salad not only ideal for summer gatherings but also makes a great work lunch or quick dinner option. With its fresh ingredients and delightful flavor, it’s bound to become a staple in your meal rotation. Enjoy!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Boiling the Pasta
Fill a 5 to 6-quart stockpot two-thirds full with water over medium-high heat.
Add Ingredients to Boil
Add the dry Rotini pasta and 1 tablespoon kosher salt to the stockpot.
Cook the Pasta
Cook according to package directions.
Drain and Cool the Pasta
Drain the pasta and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Ensure the pasta is well-drained.
Combine Salad Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, diced mini cucumbers, diced red, orange, and yellow bell peppers. Stir to combine.
Add Feta Cheese
Add the crumbled feta cheese, but do not stir yet to prevent the feta from breaking down.
Prepare the Dressing
In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced basil, minced garlic, kosher salt, and fresh cracked black pepper until well incorporated.
Combine Dressing with Salad
Pour the dressing over the pasta salad.
Toss the Salad
Stir or toss with salad tongs until all of the salad is completely coated before serving.
Notes
Serving Suggestion
This pasta salad is best served chilled. Consider refrigerating for at least 30 minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.
Ingredient Substitutions
Feel free to substitute feta cheese with goat cheese or omit it for a dairy-free version.
Ingredient Freshness
Using fresh ingredients, especially herbs and vegetables, will significantly improve the overall taste of the salad.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad may become slightly soggy over time, so consider adding more fresh herbs or a splash of dressing when serving leftovers.
Cook techniques
Boiling Pasta
Fill a stockpot two-thirds full with water, add kosher salt, and bring to a boil. Add dry Rotini pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Rinse with cold water to stop the cooking.
Chop Vegetables
Use a sharp knife and a cutting board to dice and halve cherry tomatoes, mini cucumbers, and bell peppers into uniform pieces. This ensures even distribution and a pleasing presentation in the salad.
Mixing Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced basil, minced garlic, kosher salt, and black pepper. Whisk thoroughly to combine all ingredients into a smooth dressing.
Combining Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine chopped vegetables and crumbled feta cheese. Pour the dressing over the salad and gently stir to coat all ingredients evenly, being careful not to break the feta.
Cooling Pasta
After draining the pasta, rinse it under cold water until it is no longer warm. This process helps to prevent further cooking and keeps the pasta firm for the salad.
FAQ
What type of pasta can I use for pasta salad?
You can use any shape of pasta, but Rotini is ideal due to its ability to hold onto dressings and ingredients well.
Can I prepare the salad in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the salad up to a day in advance. Keep the dressing separate until ready to serve to prevent the pasta from becoming soggy.
How can I make the salad more flavorful?
Consider adding additional ingredients such as olives, artichokes, or sun-dried tomatoes. You can also adjust the seasoning in the dressing to your taste.
Is there a substitute for feta cheese?
If you prefer a different cheese, goat cheese or mozzarella can be used as alternatives to feta in this salad.
How long does the pasta salad last in the refrigerator?
The pasta salad will last for 3 to 5 days in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Conclusion
This vibrant pasta salad is a delightful combination of fresh vegetables and creamy feta, all brought together with a zesty dressing. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a refreshing side dish, it’s not only easy to make but also customizable to suit your taste preferences.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Mediterranean Chickpea Salad
Combine canned chickpeas, diced red onion, cucumber, olives, and parsley with a lemon-olive oil dressing for a hearty, protein-rich salad.
Caprese Pasta Salad
Mix cooked pasta with cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, fresh basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a classic Italian flavor profile.
Asian Noodle Salad
Use soba noodles instead of rotini, add shredded carrots, snow peas, and green onions, and toss with a sesame soy dressing for an Asian twist.
Quinoa and Black Bean Salad
Substitute quinoa for pasta and mix with black beans, corn, avocado, and cilantro, dressed with lime juice for a nutritious and filling option.
Greek Pasta Salad
Add Kalamata olives, artichoke hearts, and red onion to the original recipe for a more traditional Greek flavor experience.
Italian Antipasto Salad
Incorporate salami, pepperoni, and provolone cheese, along with marinated artichokes and roasted red peppers for a hearty, cold pasta dish.
Tropical Fruit Pasta Salad
Mix in diced pineapple, mango, and a coconut milk dressing for a sweet addition that brings a tropical flair to your pasta salad.
