Refreshing Spring Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing Recipe

When the weather warms up and flowers bloom, my taste buds crave a delightful Spring Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing. This dish bursts with fresh flavors, vibrant colors, and an aroma that could make a garden jealous. Imagine twirling al dente pasta around your fork, mingling with crisp vegetables and zesty dressing, all while sunshine pours in through the windows. It’s like a mini-vacation on your plate.

I remember hosting a picnic last spring, the sun shining down as laughter filled the air. I brought along this pasta salad, and it was gone faster than you can say “pass the bread.” The perfect blend of textures and flavors made everyone ask for seconds – or thirds! So gear up for a culinary adventure that’ll make gatherings memorable and fill your kitchen with joy.

I still chuckle at how my friends couldn’t stop raving about this salad long after our picnic ended.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Pasta: Use rotini or penne for the best texture; they hold onto the dressing beautifully.

• Cherry Tomatoes: Look for firm, vibrant tomatoes that burst with sweetness when bitten into.

• Cucumber: Choose crisp cucumbers; they add crunch and freshness to every bite.

• Bell Peppers: Any color will do; they contribute sweetness and vibrant color to your salad.

• Red Onion: Thinly slice for that punchy flavor without overwhelming the dish.

• Italian Dressing: Store-bought works well, but homemade adds a personal touch that elevates this salad.

• Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta adds a creamy texture and tanginess that perfectly complements the freshness.

• Fresh Basil: Chopped basil brings aromatic notes that elevate the overall flavor profile.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil over high heat. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.

Prepare the Veggies: While pasta cooks, chop cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell peppers, and red onion into bite-sized pieces. Enjoy sniffing those fresh aromas as you work.

Mix It Up!: In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta with chopped veggies. Toss them together like you’re auditioning for a cooking show – give it some flair!

Add Dressing & Cheese: Drizzle Italian dressing over the salad mixture generously. Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top for that ultimate creamy touch.

Toss & Serve: Gently toss everything together until well coated in dressing. Garnish with fresh basil for an aromatic finish that makes you want to dig in immediately!

Now go ahead and serve this Spring Pasta Salad as a spectacular side or delightful main dish at your next gathering!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Cook the pasta first until al dente, then mix it while preparing your fresh veggies and dressing. This ensures everything blends perfectly together.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap in seasonal veggies or add proteins like grilled chicken or chickpeas. Personalize it based on what tickles your taste buds.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For best flavor, enjoy cold without reheating.

My neighbor once told me this salad saved her from a potluck disaster; she whipped it up in minutes and stole the show!

FAQ

What type of pasta works best for Spring Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing?

Any short pasta like fusilli or rotini holds dressing well and adds great texture.

Can I make Spring Pasta Salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! It tastes even better after chilling in the fridge for a few hours.

What can I substitute for Italian dressing?

You can use a homemade vinaigrette or any zesty dressing you prefer for flavor.

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Spring Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Brighten up your mealtime with this vibrant Spring Pasta Salad, bursting with fresh flavors and colorful veggies. Perfect for picnics or family gatherings, this dish is not only visually appealing but also incredibly easy to prepare. With zesty Italian dressing and creamy feta, every bite offers a delightful crunch and a taste of sunshine. Get ready to impress your guests and enjoy a refreshing culinary experience!

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Ingredients

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• 8 oz rotini pasta
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 medium cucumber, diced
• 1 bell pepper (any color), chopped
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup Italian dressing
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped

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Instructions

1. 1. Cook the pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
2. 2. While pasta cooks, chop cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, and red onion into bite-sized pieces.
3. 3. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta with chopped veggies.
4. 4. Drizzle Italian dressing over the salad mixture and sprinkle crumbled feta on top.
5. 5. Toss everything gently until well combined. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (180g)
• Calories: 230
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 320mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 7g
• Cholesterol: 15mg