Looking for a delicious and satisfying recipe to add to your weekly meal rotation? Look no further than our Main Dish Pasta Salad! This versatile dish is perfect for a light lunch or a quick and easy dinner option. Packed with vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients, this pasta salad is sure to become a favorite in your household. Let’s dive into how to create this flavorful dish packed with goodness!
Title: Main Dish Pasta Salad
**Ingredients:**
– 8 oz fusilli pasta
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 large cucumber, diced
– 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 bell pepper, diced
– 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. Boil the fusilli pasta in a large pot of salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and run it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Transfer to a large salad bowl.
2. Add the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, bell pepper, black olives, basil, and parsley to the bowl with the pasta.
3. Toss the ingredients together gently to combine.
4. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the salad.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste, keeping in mind that the feta cheese adds some saltiness to the dish.
6. Drizzle with your favorite vinaigrette or homemade dressing. Toss the salad again to coat everything evenly.
7. Cover the salad bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
8. Before serving, give the pasta salad a final toss and adjust seasoning if needed. You can also top it with additional fresh herbs for a burst of flavor.
This Main Dish Pasta Salad is a crowd-pleaser that can be customized to suit your preferences. Feel free to add your favorite protein such as grilled chicken, tuna, or chickpeas to make it even heartier. It’s also a great dish to bring to potlucks, picnics, or as a side dish for barbecues. The combination of fresh vegetables, herbs, and tangy feta cheese creates a symphony of flavors that will leave you craving for more. Enjoy this pasta salad as a light and nutritious meal that will brighten up your day!
