Get ready to transform your summer gathering with a show-stopping pasta salad that's as visually stunning as it is delicious! This Red White and Blue Pasta Salad isn't just a recipe—it's a patriotic culinary experience that will have your guests begging for seconds. Bursting with fresh berries, tangy feta, and a zesty balsamic dressing, this dish is the ultimate crowd-pleaser that screams celebration in every colorful bite.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz rotini pasta
- 1 cup blueberries
- 1 cup strawberries, sliced
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/2 cup red onion, diced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and add a pinch of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Add the rotini pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes, until the pasta is al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and immediately rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta quickly.
- While the pasta is cooling, wash the blueberries and strawberries thoroughly. Slice the strawberries into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
- Dice the red onion into small, uniform pieces. Crumble the feta cheese if not already crumbled.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, blueberries, sliced strawberries, crumbled feta cheese, and diced red onion.
- Pour the prepared dressing over the pasta mixture and gently toss to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together before serving.
- Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve chilled.
Tips
- • For the best texture, rinse your pasta with cold water immediately after cooking to stop the cooking process and prevent clumping. • Use ripe, fresh berries for maximum flavor and vibrant color. • Allow the salad to chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together. • For a protein boost, consider adding grilled chicken or shredded rotisserie chicken. • If preparing in advance, keep the dressing separate and add just before serving to maintain the salad's crisp texture. • Choose rotini pasta as it holds the dressing beautifully and captures small ingredients in its twists.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 25mg
