Mediterranean Rainbow Pasta Salad recipe
Indulge in the vibrant colors and flavors of the Mediterranean with this stunning Mediterranean Rainbow Pasta Salad! This innovative recipe combines the tender bite of pasta with the sweetness of cherry tomatoes, the brininess of feta cheese, and the freshness of herbs, creating a truly unforgettable culinary experience.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Serving
Ingredients:
- 12 oz rotini pasta (tri-color works beautifully)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber slices
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1/2 cup black olives
- 1/2 cup orange bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
For the dressing:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp honey
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta:
Boil the pasta in salted water according to package instructions. Drain, rinse with cold water, and set aside.
2. Prepare the veggies:
In a large bowl, mix cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, broccoli florets, olives, bell pepper, red onion, and parsley.
3. Make the dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper until smooth.
4. Combine and toss:
Add the cooked pasta to the veggie mix. Pour the dressing over everything and toss until evenly coated.
5. Chill and serve:
Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. Serve cold for a refreshing and quick meal.
Tips and Variations
1. Use a variety of colorful vegetables: Mix in some diced bell peppers, sliced olives, or chopped artichoke hearts for added color and flavor.
2. Customize with your favorite herbs: Experiment with different herbs, such as parsley, dill, or oregano, for a unique flavor profile.
3. Add some protein: Mix in some cooked chicken, salami, or chickpeas for added protein and flavor.
4. Make it a meal prep: Prepare the pasta salad ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
5. Use different types of pasta: Experiment with other types of pasta, such as bowtie or penne, for a change of pace.
1. Use a variety of colorful vegetables: Mix in some diced bell peppers, sliced olives, or chopped artichoke hearts for added color and flavor.
2. Customize with your favorite herbs: Experiment with different herbs, such as parsley, dill, or oregano, for a unique flavor profile.
3. Add some protein: Mix in some cooked chicken, salami, or chickpeas for added protein and flavor.
4. Make it a meal prep: Prepare the pasta salad ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
5. Use different types of pasta: Experiment with other types of pasta, such as bowtie or penne, for a change of pace.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
– Calories: 350
– Protein: 15g
– Fat: 12g
– Saturated Fat: 3g
– Cholesterol: 10mg
– Carbohydrates: 45g
– Fiber: 4g
– Sugar: 8g
– Sodium: 250mg
– Calories: 350
– Protein: 15g
– Fat: 12g
– Saturated Fat: 3g
– Cholesterol: 10mg
– Carbohydrates: 45g
– Fiber: 4g
– Sugar: 8g
– Sodium: 250mg