Why This Recipe Works
Pasta salad is a quick and easy dish that’s perfect for those hot summer days when you don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. This recipe is packed with fresh vegetables and tangy dressing, making it a refreshing and healthy option for lunch or dinner. Plus, it’s vegetarian and can easily be made vegan by omitting the feta cheese.
Ingredients
- 250g pasta
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup cucumber, chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, chopped
- 1/4 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup Italian dressing
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water.
- In a large bowl, toss together pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, black olives, feta cheese, and Italian dressing.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Serve chilled and enjoy!
Variations
- Make it vegan by omitting the feta cheese or using a vegan alternative.
- Add some protein by tossing in some cooked chicken or shrimp.
- Switch up the vegetables to your liking. Bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots are all great additions.
- Use a different type of pasta, such as bowtie or penne.
Tips for Making the Best Pasta Salad
- Rinse the pasta with cold water to prevent it from sticking together.
- Use a high-quality Italian dressing for the best flavor.
- Chill the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Don’t be afraid to get creative with the vegetables and toppings!
FAQ
How long can I store pasta salad in the refrigerator?
Pasta salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days. It is best to store it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness.
Can I use any type of pasta for pasta salad?
Yes, you can use any type of pasta for pasta salad. However, it is recommended to use short pasta shapes like fusilli, rotini, or penne as they hold the dressing better.
Can I make pasta salad ahead of time?
Yes, pasta salad can be made ahead of time. In fact, it is best to make it a few hours or a day in advance to allow the flavors to meld together.
Can I use bottled dressing for pasta salad?
Yes, you can use bottled dressing for pasta salad. However, making your own dressing is easy and allows you to customize the flavors to your liking.
Can I add meat to pasta salad?
Yes, you can add meat to pasta salad. Grilled chicken, shrimp, or salami are popular options. Just be sure to cook the meat thoroughly before adding it to the salad.
Can I make pasta salad without mayonnaise?
Yes, you can make pasta salad without mayonnaise. Use a vinaigrette dressing instead or mix in some Greek yogurt for a creamy texture.
Can I add vegetables to pasta salad?
Yes, you can add vegetables to pasta salad. Tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, and onions are commonly used. Just be sure to chop them into small pieces so they are easy to eat.
Should I rinse the pasta after cooking for pasta salad?
Yes, it is recommended to rinse the pasta under cold water after cooking for pasta salad. This stops the cooking process and prevents the pasta from becoming too soft and mushy.
Can I use frozen vegetables for pasta salad?
Yes, you can use frozen vegetables for pasta salad. However, be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry with a paper towel before adding them to the salad.
How much pasta salad should I make per person?
As a side dish, plan for about 1/2 cup to 1 cup of pasta salad per person. If serving as a main dish, plan for about 2 cups per person.
