Let me tell you, this Vegetarian Pasta Salad with Feta is one of my go-to dishes for warm days and gatherings! It’s so refreshing and vibrant, packed with bright cherry tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, and the creamy goodness of feta cheese. Every bite is like a little taste of summer! I remember the first time I made it for a picnic; everyone raved about it, and I couldn’t help but feel proud. It’s incredibly easy to whip up, which is a huge bonus when you’re juggling a million other things. You just cook the pasta, toss in some fresh veggies, and drizzle on a zesty dressing that brings everything together beautifully. Trust me, this salad is not just a side dish; it’s the star of the table!
Ingredients
For this colorful and delightful Vegetarian Pasta Salad with Feta, you’ll need a handful of fresh ingredients that really shine together. Here’s what you’ll want to gather:
- 2 cups pasta (any shape you love; I usually go for rotini or penne for that extra bite!)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (these little gems add such sweetness and color)
- 1 cucumber, diced (I like to peel it for a smoother texture, but the skin adds color too!)
- 1 bell pepper, diced (any color works, but red or yellow are my favorites for sweetness)
- 1/2 red onion, diced (this gives a nice zing, but feel free to adjust based on your taste)
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled (the creaminess is a must for me; adjust to your preference!)
- 1/4 cup olive oil (extra virgin is best for that rich flavor)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed if possible, oh-so-refreshing!)
- Salt and pepper to taste (don’t skimp on seasoning; it makes a huge difference!)
With these simple ingredients, you’re on your way to creating a stunning salad that’s perfect for any occasion!
How to Prepare Vegetarian Pasta Salad with Feta
Now, let’s dive into the steps to create this delicious Vegetarian Pasta Salad with Feta. It’s super straightforward, and I promise, you’ll feel like a pro in no time!
Cooking the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil, and then add your 2 cups of pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente—usually around 8 to 10 minutes. Once it’s done, drain the pasta in a colander and let it cool for a bit. This step is crucial because you don’t want it to steam your veggies later!
Combining Ingredients
In a big mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with the 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes, 1 diced cucumber, 1 diced bell pepper, and 1/2 diced red onion. Gently fold everything together, and then sprinkle in the 1 cup of crumbled feta cheese. This is where the magic starts happening—so colorful and inviting!
Making the Dressing
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the 1/4 cup of olive oil, 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. I love using freshly squeezed lemon juice here; it really brightens the dish! Make sure it’s well combined and tasting just right.
Tossing and Chilling the Salad
Now, pour the dressing over your pasta and veggie mix. Toss everything together gently but thoroughly, ensuring every bite is coated in that lovely dressing. Then, pop the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This chilling time lets all those flavors meld together beautifully and makes it extra refreshing!
Nutritional Information
Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for this delightful Vegetarian Pasta Salad with Feta per serving: approximately 250 calories, 15g of fat (with 4g saturated fat), 8g of protein, and 25g of carbohydrates. You’ll also find about 3g of sugar and 500mg of sodium. Remember, these values might vary based on the specific ingredients you use, but they give you a great idea of the deliciousness you’re enjoying!
Tips for Success
To make sure your Vegetarian Pasta Salad with Feta shines every time, here are some of my top tips! First, don’t skip the chilling step; it’s essential for letting those flavors blend beautifully, so plan ahead! If you’re making this salad in advance, feel free to add the feta just before serving to keep it fresh and creamy.
For extra crunch, consider tossing in some olives or even a handful of fresh spinach. And if you want to spice things up, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick! If you have leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just keep in mind that the pasta might soak up some of the dressing, so you may want to add a splash of olive oil and lemon juice before enjoying it again. Happy cooking!
Variations
The beauty of this Vegetarian Pasta Salad with Feta is that it’s endlessly customizable! Feel free to switch up the veggies based on what you have on hand or what’s in season. For a crunchy twist, try adding some shredded carrots or even roasted bell peppers for a smoky flavor. You can also toss in some fresh herbs like basil or parsley for an aromatic touch—yum!
If you’re a fan of a bit of heat, a dash of diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can really elevate the flavor! And don’t forget about the dressing; swapping the olive oil for a balsamic vinaigrette can give the salad a whole new personality. Trust me, once you start experimenting, you’ll find your own favorite combinations that make this dish uniquely yours!
Serving Suggestions
This Vegetarian Pasta Salad with Feta is such a versatile dish that it pairs beautifully with a variety of meals and occasions! If you’re hosting a picnic or a potluck, this salad is an absolute crowd-pleaser. Serve it alongside some grilled vegetables or a platter of assorted cheeses for a delightful spread.
For a light lunch or dinner, consider pairing it with a simple lemon herb chicken or some roasted chickpeas for added protein. It also complements fresh pita bread or a warm baguette, perfect for scooping up those delicious flavors! And if you’re looking to elevate your brunch game, this salad is fantastic served with fluffy scrambled eggs or a quiche. Trust me, it adds a refreshing touch that everyone will love!
FAQ Section
Can I make this Vegetarian Pasta Salad with Feta ahead of time?
Absolutely! This salad is perfect for making a day in advance. Just keep it in the fridge, and remember to add the feta just before serving to keep it fresh and creamy.
What other ingredients can I add to the salad?
Oh, the possibilities are endless! You can add olives, artichokes, or even some diced avocado for creaminess. Feel free to mix in seasonal veggies like zucchini or asparagus for a fresh twist.
How long does this salad last in the fridge?
The salad will stay fresh in an airtight container for about 3 days. Just keep in mind that the pasta might soak up some of the dressing, so you might want to drizzle a little olive oil and lemon juice before enjoying it again!
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Definitely! If feta isn’t your favorite, you can substitute it with goat cheese, mozzarella, or even some grated parmesan. Each will give a unique flavor to your Vegetarian Pasta Salad.
Is this salad gluten-free?
To make this salad gluten-free, simply use gluten-free pasta. It’s a great way to enjoy this refreshing dish while accommodating dietary preferences!
Mediterranean Pasta Salad is another great option to explore!
Print
Vegetarian Pasta Salad with Feta: 7 Vibrant Ingredients to Love
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A refreshing and colorful vegetarian pasta salad with feta cheese.
Ingredients
- 2 cups pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 red onion, diced
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and let it cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, and red onion.
- Add the feta cheese to the bowl.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Feel free to add other vegetables like olives or spinach.
- This salad can be made a day in advance.
- Adjust the amount of feta to your preference.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: Vegetarian Pasta Salad, Feta Pasta Salad, Pasta Salad Recipe
