Pasta salads are a perfect blend of comfort food and refreshing flavors—ideal for a casual lunch, a picnic in the park, or a potluck dinner. This Spicy Pasta Salad recipe puts a zesty twist on the classic dish by incorporating a medley of vibrant ingredients that will tantalize your taste buds. With just the right amount of kick, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. Let’s get cooking!
Title: Spicy Pasta Salad
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pasta (such as fusilli or penne)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 bell pepper, chopped
– 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup sliced black olives
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
Dressing:
– 1/3 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
– 1 tsp honey
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, bell pepper, red onion, black olives, parsley, and feta cheese.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, honey, minced garlic, chili powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper to make the dressing.
4. Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss everything together until well combined and coated evenly.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. Serve the spicy pasta salad cold, garnished with extra feta cheese and fresh parsley if desired.
This Spicy Pasta Salad is a delightful blend of textures and flavors that will awaken your taste buds with each bite. The tangy feta cheese pairs perfectly with the heat from the chili powder and cayenne pepper, while the fresh vegetables add a burst of color and crunch. This dish is not only delicious but also versatile—perfect for any occasion, from a simple weekday dinner to a festive gathering with friends and family.
Enjoy the simplicity of creating this flavorful dish, and impress your loved ones with a vibrant and satisfying meal that is as easy to make as it is delicious. Whether you’re a pasta enthusiast or simply looking to add a bit of spice to your menu, this Spicy Pasta Salad is sure to become a go-to recipe in your culinary arsenal.
