Let me tell you about my absolute favorite summer dish: Spicy Kimchi Pasta Salad! It’s this incredible fusion of Korean and Italian flavors that just dances on your taste buds. I stumbled upon this recipe during a summer potluck when I needed something refreshing yet bold. The combination of spicy kimchi with creamy mayonnaise and tangy rice vinegar is just perfection! Plus, it’s so easy to whip up, and it always impresses my friends. Trust me, once you try this salad, you’ll be craving it all season long. It’s the perfect side dish for barbecues or a light lunch!
Ingredients for Spicy Kimchi Pasta Salad
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this vibrant salad shine! You’ll need 8 ounces of pasta, cooked and drained to your liking—any shape you love will work! Next, grab 1 cup of kimchi, chopped into bite-sized pieces for that spicy kick. For the creamy base, use 1/2 cup of mayonnaise, which brings everything together beautifully. Add 2 tablespoons of rice vinegar for a refreshing zing, and 1 tablespoon of sesame oil for a nutty depth. Don’t forget 1 tablespoon of gochujang, the Korean chili paste that adds a wonderful heat! Finally, toss in 1/2 cup of chopped green onions and 1/4 cup of chopped cilantro for a fresh finish. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and you’re all set!
How to Prepare Spicy Kimchi Pasta Salad
Making this Spicy Kimchi Pasta Salad is a breeze, and I promise it’ll become a go-to dish! Start by cooking your pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain it and rinse under cold water to cool it down quickly. This step is crucial because we want to avoid a mushy salad!
Cooking the Pasta
Boil a pot of salted water and add your pasta. Keep an eye on it and taste a piece a minute or two before the package time ends. Drain the pasta and give it a quick rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. This keeps it perfectly firm!
Mixing the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped kimchi, mayonnaise, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and gochujang. Stir it all together until it’s creamy and well-blended. This mixture is where all the flavors come together, so mix well until everything is coated beautifully!
Combining and Chilling
Now, fold the cooled pasta into the kimchi mixture gently, ensuring every piece is covered. Once combined, taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Cover the bowl and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld together, making every bite even more delicious!
Tips for Success
To make your Spicy Kimchi Pasta Salad even better, here are a few insider tips! If you want to kick up the heat, feel free to add more gochujang to suit your spice tolerance—don’t be shy! You can also make this salad a day in advance; the flavors just get better as they sit together in the fridge! If you’re looking for a lighter option, substitute the pasta with zucchini noodles for a low-carb twist. And remember, using homemade kimchi can elevate the dish tremendously if you have some on hand. Trust me, these little tweaks will take your salad to the next level!
Variations on Spicy Kimchi Pasta Salad
There are so many fun ways to mix up your Spicy Kimchi Pasta Salad! First off, feel free to experiment with different types of pasta. Penne, fusilli, or even whole grain pasta can all bring something unique to the dish. If you’re looking to add some crunch, try tossing in diced bell peppers, shredded carrots, or even snap peas for a colorful twist! For a protein boost, consider adding cooked shrimp, grilled chicken, or tofu—perfect for making it a more filling meal. You can also switch up the herbs by using fresh mint or basil if you’re feeling adventurous. The possibilities are endless, so get creative and make it your own!
Serving Suggestions
This Spicy Kimchi Pasta Salad pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes! For a perfect picnic spread, serve it alongside grilled chicken skewers or spicy pork tacos for a fantastic flavor combo. If you’re in the mood for a lighter meal, try it with a refreshing cucumber salad or some crispy spring rolls. And don’t forget to sip on a chilled glass of white wine or a light beer to complement the spice! Your taste buds will thank you!
Nutritional Information Disclaimer
Just a quick note: nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so these numbers are just estimates! Typically, you can expect about 300 calories, 20g of fat, 5g of protein, and 30g of carbs per serving. Always double-check your own ingredients for the most accurate information!
FAQ About Spicy Kimchi Pasta Salad
Can I use store-bought kimchi? Absolutely! Store-bought kimchi works perfectly and saves you time. Just be sure to choose a brand that has a flavor you love!
Is this dish vegan? Yes, this Spicy Kimchi Pasta Salad is vegan-friendly as long as you use vegan mayonnaise. It’s a delicious way to enjoy a plant-based meal!
How spicy is it? The spice level can vary depending on the amount of gochujang you add. Start with the recommended amount, and adjust to your taste!
Can I prepare this salad ahead of time? Definitely! Making it a day in advance allows the flavors to develop even more, making it even tastier!
What can I substitute for pasta? If you’re looking for a low-carb option, zucchini noodles or even quinoa can be great alternatives to traditional pasta!
Spicy Kimchi Pasta Salad: 5 Steps to Flavorful Bliss
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A refreshing and spicy twist on traditional pasta salad.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces pasta
- 1 cup kimchi, chopped
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and cool.
- In a large bowl, mix kimchi, mayonnaise, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and gochujang.
- Add the cooled pasta to the kimchi mixture and stir well.
- Fold in green onions and cilantro.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Adjust spice level by adding more gochujang.
- Can be made a day in advance for best flavor.
- Substitute pasta with zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Korean-Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: Spicy Kimchi Pasta Salad, pasta salad, kimchi salad, Korean salad
