Pasta salad is a truly versatile dish. It can be the perfect side for any meal, the perfect way to take advantage of leftovers, or the perfect main dish for a light lunch or dinner. For those who love the flavors of an Olive Garden-style pasta salad, the following recipe is sure to hit the spot. It combines the flavors of olives, tomatoes, cheese, and a homemade dressing that is as easy to make as it is delicious.
Ingredients
For the salad, you will need:
- 1 pound of your favorite pasta
- 2 cups of cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup of sliced black olives
- 1 cup of crumbled feta cheese
- 1/2 cup of chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 cup of diced red onion
For the dressing, you will need:
- 1/2 cup of olive oil
- 1/4 cup of red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
Instructions
To make the pasta salad, begin by cooking the pasta according to the package directions. Once it is cooked, drain and rinse with cold water to cool it down. Place the cooled pasta in a large bowl and add the tomatoes, olives, feta, parsley, and red onion. Toss to combine.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss to combine. Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour to allow the flavors to blend.
Before serving, taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of pasta should I use for pasta salad?
Most types of short-cut pasta work well in pasta salad, such as macaroni, shells, bowtie, or rotini. Longer noodles such as spaghetti or linguine can also be used, but they may not hold up as well when dressed.
Do I have to use red wine vinegar in the dressing?
No, you can use any type of vinegar that you like. White wine vinegar, apple cider vinegar, and balsamic vinegar are all good options.
Can I add other vegetables to the salad?
Yes, the possibilities are endless! Some other vegetables that would work well in this pasta salad include bell peppers, cucumbers, broccoli, artichoke hearts, and zucchini.
Can I make the salad ahead of time?
Yes, the salad can be made up to 24 hours in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
How long will the salad keep in the refrigerator?
The salad will keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It is best if eaten within the first 24-48 hours for maximum flavor and texture.
