Description
A vibrant and refreshing Mediterranean-inspired pasta salad featuring rotini pasta tossed with sun-dried tomatoes, cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, Kalamata olives, red onion, fresh basil, and a zesty homemade dressing. Perfect as a light side dish or a vegetarian-friendly meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta and Vegetables
- 12 oz rotini pasta
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil, drained and chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
Cheese
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Dressing
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down.
- Combine salad ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, halved cherry tomatoes, crumbled feta cheese, sliced Kalamata olives, thinly sliced red onion, chopped fresh basil, and grated Parmesan cheese. Gently toss to combine evenly.
- Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper until emulsified and well combined.
- Toss with dressing: Pour the dressing over the pasta salad mixture. Toss everything carefully until all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Chill and serve: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- You can substitute goat cheese for feta cheese for a different flavor profile.
- For a more hearty meal, add grilled chicken to make it a main dish.
- To make a lighter version, reduce the amount of olive oil slightly.
- Ensure to rinse the pasta well after cooking to prevent it from sticking and to keep the salad refreshing.
