Get ready to transform your ordinary pasta salad into a culinary masterpiece that will have everyone begging for the recipe! This isn't just another side dish - it's a flavor-packed sensation that combines the freshness of crisp vegetables, the tanginess of feta, and a perfectly balanced dressing that will make your taste buds dance. Whether you're planning a summer picnic, a wedding reception, or just craving a delicious meal, this overnight pasta salad is about to become your new obsession.
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound rotini pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the rotini pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package directions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta thoroughly in a colander and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta quickly.
- While the pasta is cooling, prepare the fresh vegetables. Wash and halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber into small uniform cubes, and slice the black olives.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, sliced black olives, and crumbled feta cheese.
- Create the dressing by whisking together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper in a separate small bowl until well combined and emulsified.
- Pour the prepared dressing over the pasta and vegetable mixture, gently tossing to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Cover the pasta salad with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight to allow the flavors to meld and develop. This resting period enhances the taste and texture of the dish.
- Before serving, give the pasta salad a gentle stir and taste, adjusting seasoning if needed. Serve chilled as a refreshing side dish or light meal.
Tips
- • Always cook pasta al dente and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent mushy texture • Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor profile • The overnight resting period is crucial - it allows flavors to meld and intensify • For extra flavor, consider toasting the Italian seasoning briefly before adding to the dressing • Use a good quality extra virgin olive oil and red wine vinegar for the dressing • Feel free to add protein like grilled chicken or salami to make it a complete meal • Keep the pasta salad refrigerated and consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 15mg
