Ultimate Pasta Salad (Award-Winning!) Recipe
This is the ultimate pasta salad recipe, a true crowd-pleaser that has earned its award-winning reputation. Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or a quick weeknight side, it’s packed with fresh veggies, savory cheese, and a perfectly balanced dressing. For another fantastic pasta dish, try this Greek Orzo with Tomatoes, Olives, and Feta Recipe.
PrintUltimate Pasta Salad (Award-Winning!)
This Mediterranean pasta salad features sweet heirloom cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, mild red onions, salty feta crumbles, briny capers, and is tossed in a homemade red wine vinegar and herb dressing. It’s a classic summer potluck recipe.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 1x
- Method: Side Dish
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients
- 1 box (16 oz) uncooked short-cut pasta (farfalle, rotini, or penne)
- 2/3 cup sliced red onions
- 1 pint heirloom cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup diced cucumbers
- 1/4 cup jarred pickled capers
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- Dressing: 1/4 cup red wine vinegar, 2 tsp lemon juice, 2 tsp Dijon mustard, 2 tsp Italian seasoning, 1 clove minced garlic, salt and pepper to taste, 1/2 cup olive oil
Instructions
- Fill a large stockpot with water, bring to a boil over high heat, salt with 1 tablespoon salt, add pasta and cook until just al dente per package instructions. Drain, toss with a light drizzle of olive oil, and set aside to cool slightly.
- While pasta cools, chop tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions. Add to a large mixing bowl with capers.
- For dressing, whisk red wine vinegar, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Italian seasoning, minced garlic, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Slowly whisk in olive oil until emulsified. Adjust seasoning.
- Add cooled pasta and feta to the vegetable bowl. Pour dressing over top and toss to combine. Serve chilled.
Notes
This salad tastes even better after chilling for 1-2 hours to let flavors meld. Customize with extra veggies or protein like grilled chicken. Stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?
Yes, this My most requested Pasta Salad is perfect for making ahead. Prepare it up to a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. The flavors meld beautifully, making it even more delicious.
What are the best pasta shapes to use?
Short, sturdy shapes like fusilli, rotini, or farfalle work best. They hold the dressing well and won’t become mushy. These shapes are ideal for creating the perfect texture in this My most requested Pasta Salad.
How long will the leftovers keep?
Leftover pasta salad will stay fresh in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. Give it a quick stir before serving again to redistribute the flavorful dressing.
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