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Introduction:
Spring is the perfect season to enjoy lighter, fresher meals that embrace the vibrant colors and tastes of nature. A Spring Pasta Salad offers a refreshing and delicious way to celebrate the season. Packed with crisp vegetables, a zesty dressing, and your favorite pasta, this dish is not only easy to make but also versatile enough for picnics, barbecues, or a light lunch. Whether you're hosting a gathering or simply craving something light and satisfying, this pasta salad will quickly become a favorite go-to recipe.
Ingredients:
2 cups of cooked pasta (penne, fusilli, or rotini work well)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup cucumber, diced
1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1 cup bell pepper (any color), diced
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/4 cup black olives, sliced (optional)
For the dressing:
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1 tsp honey or maple syrup
1/2 tsp dried oregano
Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
Cook the Pasta: Begin by boiling the pasta in salted water according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, rinse with cold water to cool it down, and set it aside to drain thoroughly.
Prepare the Vegetables: While the pasta cooks, chop the tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, and red onion. Set aside.
Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, dried oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Combine the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooled pasta with the prepared vegetables and parsley. Add the crumbled feta cheese and black olives (if using), then drizzle the dressing over the top.
Toss and Serve: Gently toss everything together to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. For best results, let the salad chill for at least 30 minutes in the fridge before serving, so the flavors can meld.
Tips for Serving and Storing:
Serving Tip: This salad is perfect for making ahead! Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, which makes it ideal for meal prep or gatherings. Serve it chilled or at room temperature.
Storing Tip: If you're planning to store the salad for several days, consider keeping the dressing separate and adding it just before serving. This will prevent the salad from becoming soggy.
Variants:
Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for an extra protein boost and more flavor.
Herb Variations: Try swapping the parsley with fresh basil or mint for a different twist on the flavor profile.
Vegan Option: Omit the feta cheese and use a plant-based cheese alternative or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
Grilled Vegetables: For a smoky flavor, you can grill your vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, or even asparagus) before adding them to the salad.
FAQ:
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