This Easy Summer Pasta Salad is colorful and refreshing! With tasty veggies, cool dressing, and pasta, it’s perfect for warm days and gatherings.
It’s such a breeze to make; just toss everything together and let it chill! I love serving it at picnics because it’s always a crowd-pleaser. 🌞🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: I love using rotini because the spirals hold onto the dressing and flavors well. You can easily swap it for bowtie, penne, or even gluten-free pasta if you prefer!
Cherry Tomatoes: These are sweet and juicy, perfect for salads. If they’re out of season, you can use diced regular tomatoes or sun-dried tomatoes for a different twist.
Cucumber: They add crunch and freshness. If you want more flavor, try using a different type like Persian or even bell pepper strips!
Feta Cheese: Feta gives a tangy kick. If you’re avoiding dairy, crumbled tofu or a dairy-free cheese can work well, too.
Kalamata Olives: They offer a briny taste. If you don’t have them, black olives or green olives are great alternatives. Just choose whatever you like best!
How Do I Make Sure My Pasta Salad is Perfectly Flavored?
Getting the flavor right in a pasta salad can be tricky, but here are a few tips:
- Always salt your pasta water. This helps season the pasta as it cooks, adding flavor from the start.
- Let the salad chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows all the ingredients to mingle and enhances the flavors.
- Taste before serving! You can adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or even a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
Easy Summer Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz rotini pasta (or any short pasta)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, chopped
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup kalamata olives (or black olives), pitted
- 1 cup feta cheese, cubed
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and then an additional 30 minutes to chill. So, in about 45 minutes, you’ll have a delicious and refreshing pasta salad ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually 8-10 minutes until al dente. After cooking, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set it aside to cool.
2. Mix the Veggies:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with the halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, chopped red bell pepper, thinly sliced red onion, and pitted olives. This makes for a colorful and flavorful base!
3. Add Cheese and Herbs:
Next, gently fold in the cubed feta cheese and freshly chopped parsley. The cheese adds creaminess and the parsley brings a fresh touch to the salad.
4. Prepare the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. This simple dressing will enhance the flavors of your salad.
5. Combine Everything:
Pour the dressing over the pasta and veggies in the mixing bowl. Toss everything gently, making sure all the ingredients are coated with the dressing.
6. Chill:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes. This step is crucial as it allows the flavors to meld beautifully!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once chilled, serve the salad in bowls. It’s perfect as a side dish or a light main course! Enjoy your refreshing summer pasta salad!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta adds more fiber and a nutty flavor, while gluten-free pasta works equally well for those with dietary restrictions. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions to ensure perfect texture!
How Long Will This Pasta Salad Last in the Fridge?
This salad can last up to 3 days in the fridge when stored in an airtight container. Just be sure to give it a good toss before serving, as the dressing may settle at the bottom!
Can I Add Different Vegetables?
Of course! Feel free to customize this salad with any veggies you love. Zucchini, bell peppers, or even roasted vegetables work wonderfully. Just ensure they’re cut into bite-sized pieces for easy eating!
What If I Don’t Have Red Wine Vinegar?
No worries! You can substitute red wine vinegar with white wine vinegar or even apple cider vinegar for a slightly different flavor. Lemon juice is another excellent alternative that brings a fresh zing!
