The Best Italian Pasta House Salad Recipe
Pasta House Salad Recipe
If you love salads, then you’re in for a treat with this delightful pasta house salad recipe. Packed with fresh veggies, protein-rich beans, and delicious pasta, this salad is not only healthy but also incredibly flavorful. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or simply looking for a light lunch option, this pasta house salad is a perfect choice. So let’s dive in and learn how to make this delightful salad!
Ingredients
To make this pasta house salad, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound of pasta (any variety you prefer, such as penne or rotini)
- 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 can of black olives, sliced
- 1 can of chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup of crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup of chopped fresh basil
- 1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons of red wine vinegar
- 1 clove of garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
Follow these simple steps to make the pasta house salad:
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse the pasta under cold water to stop it from cooking further. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, black olives, chickpeas, feta cheese, parsley, and basil.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the vegetables in the large mixing bowl and toss gently to combine.
- Add the cooked pasta to the bowl and toss again until all the ingredients are well coated with the dressing.
- Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning if necessary with additional salt and pepper.
- Let the pasta house salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve the salad cold and enjoy!
FAQ
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta for this salad?
A: Absolutely! While the recipe recommends using penne or rotini pasta, you can use any variety you prefer, such as bowtie or fusilli.
Q: Can I add other vegetables or ingredients to the salad?
A: Of course! Feel free to customize this salad to your liking. You can add ingredients like sliced red onions, diced avocado, or even cooked chicken for some extra protein.
Q: How long can I store leftovers of this pasta house salad?
A: You can store leftovers of this salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to give the salad a good toss before serving again.
Q: Can I make this salad in advance for a party or gathering?
A: Absolutely! This pasta house salad is a great make-ahead dish. Simply prepare the salad as directed, cover it with plastic wrap or a lid, and refrigerate until serving.
Q: Is the dressing in this salad customizable?
A: Yes, it is! If you prefer a different type of vinegar or want to experiment with different herbs or spices, feel free to do so. The dressing can be customized to suit your taste preferences.
Now that you have the recipe for this delicious pasta house salad, it’s time to get cooking! Enjoy this refreshing salad as a side dish or a main course, and impress your friends and family with your culinary skills. Happy cooking!
