Summer Pasta Salad
Summer is the perfect time to enjoy a light and refreshing pasta salad that combines the best seasonal ingredients. This summer pasta salad is not only easy to make but also full of flavor and nutrients. Ideal for picnics, barbecues, or a quick weekday meal, this dish will surely become a favorite in your summer recipe collection. Let’s dive into the simple steps to create this delightful dish!
Ingredients
– 2 cups rotini pasta
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup cucumber, diced
– 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 1/2 cup bell peppers, diced (any color)
– 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
– 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is 15 minutes, and cooking time is 10 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/4 of the recipe) contains approximately:
– Calories: 250
– Protein: 6g
– Carbohydrates: 30g
– Fat: 12g
– Fiber: 3g
This nutritional value is for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
3. While the pasta cooks, prepare the vegetables.
4. In a large bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and bell peppers.
5. Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
6. Add the cooled pasta to the bowl of vegetables.
7. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper.
8. Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetables.
9. Toss gently to combine all ingredients.
10. Add the fresh basil and feta cheese, and toss again lightly.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute rotini pasta with any pasta shape of your choice. Additionally, swap feta cheese for mozzarella or omit it for a vegan option. For a spicy kick, consider adding sliced jalapeños.
Serving and Pairings
This summer pasta salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, fish, or as a standalone dish. Serve it alongside crusty bread or a light soup for a complete meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This salad is best enjoyed cold and does not require reheating. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the vegetables may change.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the pasta can lead to mushiness.
- Not rinsing the pasta can make it sticky.
- Using overly ripe tomatoes may affect the flavor.
- Neglecting to season the dressing can make the dish bland.
- Forgetting to chill the salad before serving may dull the flavors.
Helpful Tips
- Always use fresh ingredients for the best taste.
- Customize the salad with seasonal vegetables.
- Add protein like grilled chicken or chickpeas for a heartier meal.
- Let the salad sit for at least 30 minutes before serving to enhance flavors.
- Experiment with different dressings for variety.
FAQs
Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?
Yes, this pasta salad can be made a day in advance. Store it in the fridge to allow the flavors to meld, but add the basil and feta just before serving to keep them fresh.
What types of pasta work best for salad?
Short pasta shapes like rotini, fusilli, or penne are ideal for pasta salads since they hold the dressing and mix well with other ingredients.
Can I add protein to this salad?
Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even beans can be added to increase the protein content and make the salad more filling.
Is this dish suitable for a vegan diet?
Yes, simply omit the feta cheese and use a plant-based dressing to keep it vegan-friendly.
How do I prevent the pasta from sticking together?
Rinse the pasta under cold water after cooking to stop the cooking process and remove excess starch, which helps prevent sticking.
Conclusion
This summer pasta salad is a vibrant, healthy option that’s perfect for warm-weather dining. Easy to prepare and customizable, it’s a delightful addition to any summer gathering. Enjoy the fresh flavors and colorful ingredients that make this dish a seasonal favorite!
Summer Pasta Salad
Ingredients
- 2 cups rotini pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1 cup cucumber diced
- 1/2 cup red onion finely chopped
- 1/2 cup bell peppers diced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil chopped
- 1/4 cup feta cheese crumbled
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- While the pasta cooks, prepare the vegetables.
- In a large bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and bell peppers.
- Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
- Add the cooled pasta to the bowl of vegetables.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetables.
- Toss gently to combine all ingredients.
- Add the fresh basil and feta cheese, and toss again lightly.
