Looking for a fresh and flavorful dish to add to your summer menu? Look no further than this delightful Artichoke Pasta Salad! This recipe combines tender pasta with tangy artichokes, crisp veggies, and a zesty dressing for a perfect blend of textures and flavors. Whether you’re hosting a picnic, a barbecue, or just want a light and satisfying meal, this pasta salad is sure to be a hit. Let’s dive into the recipe and get cooking!
Artichoke Pasta Salad
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 can (14 oz) artichoke hearts, drained and quartered
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cucumber, diced
– 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 1/4 cup black olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
For the dressing:
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
– 1 tbsp lemon juice
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool. Place in a large mixing bowl.
2. Add the artichoke hearts, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, black olives, feta cheese, and parsley to the bowl with the pasta.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.
4. Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
5. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. Before serving, give the salad a final toss and adjust the seasoning if needed. Garnish with extra parsley and feta cheese, if desired.
This Artichoke Pasta Salad is a versatile dish that can be served as a side or a main course. It’s perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or even as a light lunch on a hot day. The combination of tender pasta, tangy artichokes, and fresh vegetables is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Feel free to customize the salad by adding ingredients like grilled chicken, roasted red peppers, or pine nuts for extra flavor and texture.
Remember to prepare this salad ahead of time to allow the flavors to develop fully. The longer it sits in the fridge, the more delicious it becomes. Plus, it’s a great make-ahead dish that saves you time when you’re hosting an event or simply want to have a quick and tasty meal ready to go.
So, next time you’re in need of a refreshing and satisfying dish, give this Artichoke Pasta Salad a try. It’s easy to make, full of vibrant colors and flavors, and is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Enjoy!
