Fresh and Zesty Pasta Salad Recipes You'll Love to Make
Delight in vibrant pasta salad recipes that showcase fresh ingredients and Mediterranean flair.
Equipment
- - Large pot
- small bowl
- Whisk
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
Ingredients
For the Salad
- 3 cups uncooked fusilli pasta Choose whole wheat for an extra nutritional boost!
- 2 cups halved cherry tomatoes Their sweetness adds a burst of flavor.
- 1.5 cups cooked chickpeas They bring protein and creaminess.
- 2 cups arugula This peppery green elevates the salad.
- 1 cup Persian cucumbers Their crispness provides a refreshing crunch.
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese Adds tangy creaminess.
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves Infuses the salad with aromatic flavor.
- 0.5 cup minced fresh parsley Contributes to the dish's freshness.
- 0.5 cup chopped fresh mint leaves Enhances Mediterranean vibes.
- 0.25 cup toasted pine nuts Offers a delightful crunch.
For the Dressing
- 0.25 cup extra-virgin olive oil Rounds out the flavor beautifully.
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice Brightens the salad.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard Adds depth to the dressing.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced Gives the dressing a zesty punch!
- 1 teaspoon herbes de Provence or dried Italian seasoning Complements the Mediterranean theme.
- 0.25 teaspoon red pepper flakes For a hint of heat.
- 0.75 teaspoon sea salt Enhances all flavors.
Instructions
How to Make Pasta Salad
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the uncooked fusilli pasta. Cook according to package directions until slightly past al dente, about 10 minutes.
- While the pasta cooks, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic, herbes de Provence, red pepper flakes, and salt in a small bowl until well combined.
- Drain the cooked pasta, drizzle a little olive oil over it to prevent sticking, and let it cool to room temperature for about 10 minutes.
- Once the pasta is cool, transfer it to a large bowl. Add the halved cherry tomatoes, chickpeas, arugula, Persian cucumbers, crumbled feta cheese, basil, parsley, mint, and toasted pine nuts.
- Pour the prepared dressing over the salad mixture and gently toss to ensure everything is coated. Taste and adjust with more lemon, salt, or olive oil if desired, then serve.
Notes
Optional: Garnish with additional basil leaves for a pop of color. Prepare a day in advance for enhanced flavors.