Bright, fresh, and packed with Mediterranean flavors, this pasta salad combines tender rotini pasta with chewy sun-dried tomatoes, juicy cherry tomatoes, tangy olives, and creamy feta. The fresh herbs and homemade vinaigrette elevate this simple dish into a delightful summer staple that’s perfect for quick meals, picnics, or potlucks.o Not only is this salad bursting with flavor, but it also comes together quickly, making it an ideal choice for busy days when you want something light yet satisfying. The balance of tangy, savory, and fresh ingredients creates a refreshing dish that can be enjoyed chilled or at room temperature versatile and delicious every time.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
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8 oz (225 g) rotini pasta
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1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil), chopped
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1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
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1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
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1/3 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
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1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
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1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
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1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
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1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
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2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
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1 clove garlic, minced
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1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
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Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Directions:
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Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
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In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
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Add the cooled pasta to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the dressing.
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Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, cherry tomatoes, red onion, Kalamata olives, fresh basil, and parsley. Mix well.
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Gently fold in the crumbled feta cheese. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
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Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: Approximately 320 kcal per serving | Servings: 4 servings
Discover the Delicious Charm of Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Salad
Sun-dried tomato pasta salad is one of those dishes that perfectly blends simplicity with sophisticated flavor. Bursting with the tangy sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes, the freshness of herbs, and the savory punch of feta cheese, this pasta salad embodies the essence of Mediterranean cuisine. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a picnic-ready dish, or a light dinner option, this salad offers versatility, freshness, and nutrition in every bite.
The Allure of Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Sun-dried tomatoes are the heart and soul of this pasta salad. Unlike fresh tomatoes, sun-dried tomatoes have a concentrated, sweet-tart flavor profile thanks to the drying process that removes most of their water content. This process intensifies their natural sugars and acids, giving them a unique taste that’s both bold and slightly smoky.
These tomatoes often come packed in oil, which helps preserve their flavor and texture, making them a pantry staple for adding instant umami depth to dishes. In this pasta salad, they act as little flavor bombs, providing bursts of savory richness that perfectly complement the mild, tender pasta and the briny olives.
Why This Pasta Salad Works So Well
The success of this salad lies in its balance a harmony of flavors and textures that dance together beautifully. The pasta itself acts as the perfect canvas. Rotini or corkscrew pasta is especially ideal because its twists and grooves hold onto the dressing and bits of sun-dried tomato, herbs, and cheese, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
Fresh herbs like basil and parsley add a bright, aromatic quality that cuts through the richness of the sun-dried tomatoes and feta. The Kalamata olives bring a briny, slightly salty note that deepens the salad’s flavor complexity without overpowering it. Cherry tomatoes add a juicy freshness, while the red onion lends a subtle sharpness and crunch that balances the softness of the pasta and cheese.
Finally, the homemade dressing ties everything together. Made with extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic, and Dijon mustard, it brings acidity, richness, and a slight tang, lifting the salad’s flavors and preventing it from feeling heavy.
Nutritional Benefits
This pasta salad is more than just delicious; it’s also a nutritious option that fits well into a balanced diet.
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Rich in Antioxidants: Sun-dried and fresh tomatoes provide lycopene, a powerful antioxidant linked to heart health and reduced inflammation.
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Healthy Fats: The olive oil in the dressing offers heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, which can support cholesterol levels and overall cardiovascular health.
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Protein and Calcium: Feta cheese adds protein and calcium, essential for muscle function and bone strength.
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Fiber and Vitamins: The fresh herbs, cherry tomatoes, and olives contribute vitamins A, C, and K as well as dietary fiber, aiding digestion and immune support.
Together, these ingredients make this salad a well-rounded dish that nourishes the body while delighting the palate.
Perfect for Any Occasion
One of the most appealing qualities of this sun-dried tomato pasta salad is its versatility. It’s a fantastic choice for casual everyday meals, thanks to its quick prep time and make-ahead nature. You can whip it up in under 30 minutes and enjoy it immediately or chill it to let the flavors meld both ways work beautifully.
It’s equally suited for outdoor events. This salad travels well, making it a favorite for picnics, barbecues, and potlucks. It holds up nicely at room temperature and can be easily doubled or tripled to feed a crowd.
For those who follow vegetarian diets, this salad fits the bill perfectly, delivering both flavor and protein without meat. It can also be customized to accommodate vegan preferences by swapping feta for a plant-based cheese alternative or omitting it entirely.
Tips for Customization
While the recipe as-is is a crowd-pleaser, it’s highly adaptable:
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Pasta Choice: Try different pasta shapes like penne, farfalle, or fusilli based on your preference or what’s on hand. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta can also be substituted for dietary needs.
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Cheese Options: If feta isn’t your favorite, goat cheese or mozzarella pearls work beautifully here. For vegan versions, tofu feta or cashew cheese make excellent alternatives.
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Add More Veggies: Feel free to add cucumbers, roasted red peppers, or artichoke hearts for extra texture and flavor.
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Protein Boost: For a more substantial meal, add chickpeas, grilled chicken, or shrimp.
Storing and Serving Suggestions
This pasta salad is best served chilled or at room temperature. If refrigerated, store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors tend to deepen over time, making leftovers even tastier.
Before serving leftovers, give the salad a gentle toss and add a little extra olive oil or vinegar if it seems dry. Pair it with grilled meats, fresh bread, or a green leafy salad for a complete Mediterranean-inspired meal.
A Dish That Celebrates Simplicity and Freshness
What makes this sun-dried tomato pasta salad a lasting favorite is its ability to marry simple, wholesome ingredients into something vibrant and memorable. It reflects a culinary philosophy focused on fresh flavors, healthy fats, and balanced tastes.
Whether you’re seeking a light lunch, a crowd-pleasing side dish, or a make-ahead meal for busy days, this pasta salad ticks all the boxes. Its vibrant colors and delicious aroma will attract anyone to the table, and its ease of preparation will make it a reliable go-to recipe.
Conclusion:
Sun-dried tomato pasta salad is more than just a pasta dish it’s a celebration of Mediterranean flavors that combine convenience, nutrition, and indulgence in one bowl. The interplay of chewy sun-dried tomatoes, fresh herbs, briny olives, and tangy feta makes every bite a delightful experience.
Ideal for warm-weather dining, casual get-togethers, or simply a quick nourishing meal, this salad can easily be tailored to suit any diet or taste preference. Its colorful presentation and bold flavors ensure it will become a regular in your recipe rotation.
Next time you want a dish that’s easy to prepare yet impressive and satisfying, look no further than this sun-dried tomato pasta salad a true crowd-pleaser and a testament to how simple ingredients can create extraordinary results.