When the warmer months roll around, there’s nothing quite like a refreshing pasta salad to brighten up any meal or gathering. This Pasta Salad Feta Pine Nuts recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures that is sure to please your taste buds and impress your guests. The creamy feta cheese, crunchy pine nuts, and a medley of fresh vegetables come together with perfectly cooked pasta to create a dish that is both satisfying and delicious. Whether you’re planning a picnic, a barbecue, or a simple weekday lunch, this pasta salad is a versatile and crowd-pleasing option that can be tailored to your preferences. Let’s get started on making this delightful recipe!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz of your favorite pasta (such as fusilli or penne)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cucumber, diced
– 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, finely chopped
Dressing:
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1 garlic clove, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and rinse the pasta under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool.
2. In a small skillet over medium heat, toast the pine nuts, stirring frequently, until they are golden brown and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Be careful not to burn them. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, kalamata olives, feta cheese, toasted pine nuts, and chopped basil.
4. In a small jar with a tight-fitting lid, combine the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Close the lid tightly and shake vigorously until well combined.
5. Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients in the bowl. Toss gently to coat everything evenly.
6. Add the cooled pasta to the bowl and gently toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the dressing and the ingredients are evenly distributed.
7. Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
8. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
9. Just before serving, give the pasta salad a final toss to re-incorporate the dressing. Garnish with a few extra basil leaves and pine nuts, if desired.
This Pasta Salad Feta Pine Nuts is a versatile dish that can be customized to suit your preferences. Feel free to add or substitute any vegetables or herbs you like to make it your own. It’s a great make-ahead option for potlucks, parties, or simple weeknight dinners. Enjoy the refreshing flavors and textures of this delightful pasta salad!
