Oh, let me tell you about my new obsession: Sriracha Pasta Salad! This dish takes the classic pasta salad we all know and love and gives it a fiery twist that’ll make your taste buds dance. I remember the first time I served it at a summer barbecue; everyone was raving about the spicy kick and the tangy flavor! The combination of Sriracha with fresh veggies is simply irresistible. I love how the heat from the sauce mingles with the cool, crunchy cucumbers and sweet cherry tomatoes. Trust me, this salad is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that adds excitement to any gathering!
Ingredients for Sriracha Pasta Salad
Gathering your ingredients is half the fun! For this vibrant salad, you’ll need 2 cups of your favorite pasta, cooked al dente to give it that perfect bite. You’ll want 1/2 cup of Sriracha sauce to pack in that spicy flavor, and 1/4 cup of olive oil for a smooth texture. Next, grab 1/2 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved for a juicy pop, and 1/2 cucumber, diced into refreshing bits. Add in 1/4 cup of sliced green onions and 1/4 cup of chopped cilantro for that burst of freshness. Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste. Let’s get cooking!
How to Prepare Sriracha Pasta Salad
Preparing this Sriracha Pasta Salad is a breeze, and I promise you’ll love how quickly it comes together! First, cook your pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Drain it and let it cool completely—this is key to keeping the salad fresh and not mushy. While the pasta cools, grab a large mixing bowl and whisk together the Sriracha sauce and olive oil until they’re well combined. Once the pasta is cool, toss it into the bowl with the dressing. Now, it’s time to fold in those vibrant veggies: the halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, sliced green onions, and chopped cilantro. Mix everything until it’s all beautifully coated. For the best flavor, chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows all those delicious flavors to mingle!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, then drain and let it cool.
- In a large bowl, combine Sriracha sauce and olive oil.
- Add the cooled pasta to the bowl and mix well.
- Incorporate cherry tomatoes, cucumber, green onions, and cilantro.
- Toss everything together until well mixed, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy preparation—perfect for busy weeknights!
- Bursting with bold, spicy flavor that’s sure to impress.
- Vegetarian-friendly, making it a great option for everyone.
- Perfect for gatherings, barbecues, or potlucks—everyone will want the recipe!
- Chilled and refreshing, it’s a delightful side dish for any meal.
Tips for Success
To make your Sriracha Pasta Salad absolutely perfect, here are my top tips! First, don’t be shy about adjusting the amount of Sriracha—if you like it spicy, go ahead and add more! Conversely, if you prefer a milder flavor, start with less and add gradually. You can also substitute the pasta with whole grain or gluten-free options if you need to. Fresh herbs really elevate this dish, so feel free to mix in basil or parsley if you have them on hand. And remember, letting the salad chill for that full 30 minutes is crucial for those flavors to really blend. Enjoy!
Nutritional Information
This Sriracha Pasta Salad is not just delicious but offers a decent nutritional profile too! Each serving (about 1 cup) contains approximately 320 calories, 15g of fat, 7g of protein, and 40g of carbohydrates. Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients used.
FAQ Section
Got questions about Sriracha Pasta Salad? No worries, I’ve got you covered!
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually get even better as they sit, so it’s a win-win!
Can I adjust the spice level?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of too much heat, start with just a couple of tablespoons of Sriracha and taste as you go. Add more if you’re feeling brave!
What can I serve with this salad?
This pasta salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, shrimp, or even as a side to a spicy taco night. It’s versatile enough to complement so many dishes!
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can make it a day in advance! Just remember to give it a good stir before serving, as the dressing may settle.
Is this salad gluten-free?
If you use gluten-free pasta, then yes! Just double-check the pasta package to ensure it meets your dietary needs.
Serving Suggestions
To take your meal to the next level, serve this Sriracha Pasta Salad alongside some grilled chicken or shrimp for a satisfying protein boost. It also pairs wonderfully with tacos or burritos, adding a refreshing crunch to the spicy flavors. If you’re in the mood for something lighter, try it with a side of grilled vegetables or a fresh garden salad. Trust me, each bite will be bursting with flavor!
For more delicious recipes, check out Creamy Garlic Pasta or Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken.
For more information on the health benefits of Sriracha, visit Healthline.
Print
Sriracha Pasta Salad: 5 Bold Flavors to Ignite Your Meal
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A spicy and tangy pasta salad with a kick from Sriracha.
Ingredients
- 2 cups pasta
- 1/2 cup Sriracha sauce
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and let cool.
- In a large bowl, mix Sriracha and olive oil.
- Add cooled pasta to the bowl.
- Incorporate cherry tomatoes, cucumber, green onions, and cilantro.
- Toss until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Adjust Sriracha quantity to your spice preference.
- Can be served cold or at room temperature.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Sriracha Pasta Salad
