Pasta salad has always been a staple at our family gatherings, a comforting dish that carries the best memories across generations. I remember Mama Lou’s kitchen, filled with laughter, the aroma of freshly picked basil, and the clinking of wooden spoons as we stirred the ingredients together. It was in her sunlit kitchen that I learned the secrets to creating the best pasta salad recipe, a dish that not only nourishes the body but also feeds the soul. Today, I’m excited to share this cherished recipe with you, complete with tips and stories that have been passed down through my family.
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Why You’ll Love This Best Pasta Salad Recipe
This recipe is a delightful blend of simplicity and flavor, just like those warm afternoons spent with Mama Lou and my sister, Ouma. You’ll love this best pasta salad recipe for its versatility and the way it brings people together, just like it did in our family. The combination of fresh vegetables, tangy dressing, and perfectly cooked pasta creates a harmony of flavors that can be enjoyed at picnics, potlucks, or as a satisfying meal on its own.
Each bite of this pasta salad is a journey back to those summer days when Ouma and I would sneak a few cherry tomatoes into our mouths before they made it to the bowl. It’s a recipe that invites creativity, allowing you to add your favorite ingredients while maintaining its core essence.
Ingredients You’ll Need for This Best Pasta Salad Recipe
- 12 ounces of rotini pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Feel free to substitute the rotini with your favorite pasta shape or replace the feta with goat cheese for a creamier texture. If you’re feeling adventurous, add some grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 320 per serving
- Protein: 8g
- Fat: 16g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 450mg
The Ultimate Guide to the Best Pasta Salad Recipe
Learn how to make delicious best pasta salad recipe. Easy recipe with step-by-step instructions.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 12 ounces of rotini pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Feel free to substitute the rotini with your favorite pasta shape or replace the feta with goat cheese for a creamier texture. If you’re feeling adventurous, add some grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, black olives, and feta cheese.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetables, tossing gently to combine. Ensure everything is well coated with the dressing.
- Add the fresh basil and give it a final gentle toss. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Chill the pasta salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
Mama Lou always said that patience is the secret ingredient, so don’t rush the chilling process. Letting the salad rest allows the flavors to develop and marry beautifully.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
Steps to Create Your Best Pasta Salad Recipe
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, black olives, and feta cheese.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetables, tossing gently to combine. Ensure everything is well coated with the dressing.
- Add the fresh basil and give it a final gentle toss. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Chill the pasta salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
Mama Lou always said that patience is the secret ingredient, so don’t rush the chilling process. Letting the salad rest allows the flavors to develop and marry beautifully.
Tips for Making the Best Pasta Salad Recipe
One of the most valuable lessons from Mama Lou was to always taste and adjust. This best pasta salad recipe is forgiving, and you can tweak it to suit your preferences. If you like a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes. For a more robust flavor, try roasting the red bell peppers before adding them to the salad. Learn more: Discover the Ultimate Strawberry Crunch Salad Sensation
When it comes to the dressing, balance is key. Start with a small amount and gradually add more until you reach your desired taste. Remember, the pasta will absorb some of the dressing as it sits, enhancing the salad’s flavor over time.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
This pasta salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats, making it an ideal side for barbecues and outdoor gatherings. Mama Lou often served it alongside her famous grilled chicken, and it was always a hit. For a vegetarian option, consider serving it with a hearty bean salad or a simple green salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette.
Ouma and I loved having this pasta salad as a light lunch on its own, especially during the hot summer months. It’s refreshing, satisfying, and makes for a perfect picnic dish.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store any leftover pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you find the salad has absorbed too much dressing, simply drizzle a bit more olive oil and vinegar before serving to refresh it.
This salad is best served cold or at room temperature, so there’s no need to reheat it. However, if you’re adding protein like grilled chicken, you might want to warm that separately before mixing it back into the salad.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main ingredients for best pasta salad recipe?
The main ingredients for best pasta salad recipe include the items listed in our ingredients section above. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect flavor and texture.
How long does it take to make best pasta salad recipe?
The total time to make best pasta salad recipe includes both preparation and cooking time. Check the recipe card above for exact timing details.
Can I make best pasta salad recipe ahead of time?
Yes, best pasta salad recipe can often be prepared in advance. Store it properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within the recommended timeframe.
What can I serve with best pasta salad recipe?
best pasta salad recipe pairs well with various sides and accompaniments. Consider the serving suggestions mentioned in the recipe for the best dining experience.
Is best pasta salad recipe suitable for special diets?
Depending on the ingredients used, best pasta salad recipe may be adapted for various dietary needs. Check the ingredients list and consider substitutions as needed for your dietary requirements.
Final Thoughts
Creating the best pasta salad recipe is about more than just following a set of instructions; it’s about connecting with loved ones and cherishing the stories woven into each ingredient. Mama Lou’s legacy lives on in every bite, a testament to her love for cooking and family. Whether you’re making this dish for a festive gathering or a simple family meal, I hope it brings the same joy and warmth to your table as it has to ours.
Food has a remarkable way of bringing people together, and I am grateful to share this beloved recipe with you. As you enjoy this dish, may it inspire you to create your own culinary traditions and savor the moments spent with those you hold dear.
