Irresistible Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Salad Recipe

Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Salad is like a warm hug from your Italian grandma, bursting with flavors that dance on your tongue. Picture this: tender pasta mingling with the sweet, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, creating a symphony of taste that sings to your soul. savory Italian meatballs The aroma wafts through the kitchen, making you feel like you’ve just stepped into a cozy trattoria in Tuscany.

As I prepared this dish, I was reminded of summer picnics where laughter fills the air and friends gather around a table overflowing with colorful dishes. This Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Salad is perfect for those sunny afternoons or even as a quick weeknight dinner option. baked clams casino It’s a dish that promises to make your taste buds tingle and leave you craving more.

Ingredients for Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Salad

For more inspiration, check out this Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Recipe recipe.

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Pasta: Any shape works well; I recommend fusilli or penne for their ability to hold onto the dressing beautifully.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Opt for oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor; chop them up into bite-sized pieces.
• Fresh Basil: Use vibrant green basil leaves to add freshness; tear them rather than chopping to keep their flavor intact.
• Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta adds a salty creaminess that pairs perfectly with the tangy tomatoes.
• Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil enhances the overall flavor; drizzle generously!

For the Dressing:

• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens up the salad; avoid bottled juice if possible.
• Garlic: Minced fresh garlic gives depth; use as much as you like—who can resist garlic?

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Salad

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta of choice and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and cool it down.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary—don’t skimp on flavor!

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, torn basil leaves, and crumbled feta cheese. Pour the dressing over everything.

Step 4: Toss It All Together

Gently toss all ingredients until everything is evenly coated with the dressing. It’s like giving each piece of pasta its own little hug!

Step 5: Chill Before Serving

Let your salad sit in the fridge for at least an hour before serving. This allows all those delicious flavors to meld together—like friends bonding over shared stories at dinner.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer your beautiful salad to plates or a large serving bowl. Garnish with additional basil leaves if desired and prepare for compliments from family or friends!

This Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Salad isn’t just food; it’s an experience full of flavor and love that will have everyone asking for seconds (or thirds!). So grab your apron, turn on some music, and get cooking!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To achieve optimal results, start by cooking your pasta al dente. While the pasta boils, prepare the dressing and chop vegetables. Combine everything once the pasta cools, ensuring all flavors meld together beautifully.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize your Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Salad! Swap out sun-dried tomatoes for roasted red peppers or add grilled chicken for protein. Experiment with different herbs like basil or oregano for that extra kick.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. For a fresh bite, you can enjoy it cold right from the fridge, no reheating needed!

Sharing this recipe takes me back to a summer barbecue where my friends devoured every last bite of my Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Salad. pan-fried shrimp Their compliments made all the chopping worth it!

FAQs :

What ingredients are needed for Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Salad?

To make a delicious Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Salad, you will need cooked pasta (such as rotini or penne), sun-dried tomatoes, fresh basil, mozzarella cheese, olives, and a dressing made from olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, salt, and pepper. Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition. This refreshing dish is perfect for summer barbecues or as a side at any meal.

How do I store Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Salad?

Store your Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for about three to five days when stored properly. The flavors will meld together as it sits, enhancing the taste. If you prefer a fresher texture, consider adding cheese or dressing just before serving to maintain their quality.

Can I customize my Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Salad?

Absolutely! One of the best aspects of Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Salad is its versatility. You can mix in various ingredients such as grilled chicken, arugula, or even chickpeas for added protein. Experiment with different dressings too; a creamy pesto or Italian vinaigrette can provide unique flavors that complement the sun-dried tomatoes beautifully.

Is Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes! Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Salad is an excellent meal prep option. Prepare it ahead of time and portion it into containers for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week. This dish holds up well in the fridge and makes for a satisfying and flavorful meal that’s quick to enjoy on busy days.

Conclusion for Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Salad :

In conclusion, Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Salad is a vibrant dish bursting with flavor and nutrients. With simple ingredients like pasta, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh herbs, it’s easy to prepare and customize according to your taste preferences. Ideal for gatherings or meal prep, this salad remains fresh in the fridge while enhancing its flavors over time. Enjoy this delightful salad at your next event or as part of your weekly meals!

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Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Salad

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• Author: Chloe
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Salad is a vibrant, flavorful dish that brings the essence of Italy to your table. With tender pasta tossed with tangy sun-dried tomatoes, fresh basil, and creamy feta, this salad is perfect for summer picnics or quick weeknight dinners. Easy to prepare and visually stunning, it makes a delightful side or main course that will impress family and friends alike.

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Ingredients

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• 8 oz rotini pasta
• 1 cup oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
• 4 oz feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Cook the rotini pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Drain and rinse under cold water.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sun-dried tomatoes, torn basil leaves, and crumbled feta cheese.
4. Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and gently toss until evenly coated.
5. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve chilled or at room temperature, garnished with additional basil if desired.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: About 1 cup (200g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 430mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 7g
• Cholesterol: 20mg