When summer hits and the sun shines bright, nothing beats the refreshing taste of a chilled pasta salad. This Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Salad is a delightful dish that takes just about 30 minutes to prepare, allowing you to enjoy vibrant flavors and a medley of textures in every bite. It brings together tangy sun-dried tomatoes, creamy feta, and fresh herbs for a perfect combination that dances on the palate.
This recipe is ideal for casual gatherings, picnics, or a light meal at home. You can easily make it ahead of time, as the flavors deepen and improve after sitting in the fridge for a while.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- The combination of sun-dried tomatoes and feta creates a perfect balance of tartness and creaminess.
- Fresh herbs add an aromatic element that brightens the dish.
- The pasta holds up well, ensuring the salad remains delightful even after being stored.
- It’s versatile and can be adjusted with your favorite ingredients or swaps.
What You’ll Need
Gather your ingredients to whip up this vibrant salad.
For the Salad
- 8 oz pasta (such as rotini or penne)
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, packed in oil, drained and chopped
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup olives, sliced, optional
For the Dressing
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: Add more oil if you prefer a richer dressing.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Use whole wheat pasta for a healthier option.
- Swap feta with goat cheese for a tangy twist.
- Opt for garlic powder if fresh garlic isn’t available.
- Replace balsamic vinegar with red wine vinegar as an alternative.
How to Make It
Follow these simple steps to create your Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Salad.
Cook
- Cook the pasta. Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and let cool.
Combine
- Combine ingredients. In a large bowl, combine the pasta, sun-dried tomatoes, feta cheese, basil, parsley, red onion, and olives (if using).
Whisk
- Whisk the dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, salt, and pepper.
Toss
- Pour and toss. Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss until everything is well combined.
Chill
- Chill before serving. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
How to Store It
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Freezer: No, the texture changes negatively.
Reheat: Enjoy cold or at room temperature; no reheating needed.
Tips for Best Results
- Rinse pasta with cold water after cooking to stop the cooking process.
- Allow the salad to sit longer for deeper flavor infusion.
- Use high-quality olive oil for a richer taste.
- Adjust the seasoning to your personal preference before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with grilled chicken for a satisfying meal.
- Serve alongside crusty bread to soak up the flavors.
- Bring to summer picnics as a refreshing side dish.
