Tuscan Pasta Salad is a vibrant and hearty dish filled with Mediterranean flavors. This delicious salad combines tender pasta with fresh vegetables, sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and a zesty Italian dressing, creating a perfect blend of textures and tastes. Ideal for picnics, potlucks, or as a light meal, this salad is both refreshing and satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Packed with fresh and vibrant flavors
- Easy to prepare and perfect for meal prep
- Great for picnics, barbecues, and gatherings
- Can be served as a main dish or a side
- Customizable with your favorite ingredients
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 8 ounces pasta (penne or rotini)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1 cup canned artichoke hearts, chopped
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, sliced
- 1/2 cup black or Kalamata olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, artichoke hearts, sun-dried tomatoes, olives, red onion, feta cheese, and fresh basil.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Italian seasoning, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss until evenly coated.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve cold or at room temperature and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Variations
- Add protein: Include grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a heartier meal.
- Make it vegan: Skip the feta or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
- Change up the veggies: Bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach can be great additions.
- Use a different pasta: Try bowtie, fusilli, or any pasta you prefer.
- Switch up the dressing: Use a balsamic vinaigrette or a creamy Italian dressing for a different flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Store: Keep the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: This salad is best served cold, but if needed, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.
FAQs
1. Can I make Tuscan Pasta Salad ahead of time?
Yes, this salad is perfect for meal prep. Prepare it a day ahead to enhance the flavors.
2. How do I keep the pasta from getting soggy?
Make sure to cook the pasta al dente and rinse it with cold water to stop cooking.
3. Can I use store-bought dressing?
Absolutely! A good quality Italian or balsamic dressing works well.
4. What type of pasta is best for pasta salad?
Short pasta with ridges, like rotini or penne, works well to hold the dressing.
5. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta to make this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet.
6. Can I add more vegetables?
Yes, feel free to add your favorite veggies like bell peppers or spinach.
7. How long will Tuscan Pasta Salad last in the fridge?
It will stay fresh for up to 3 days when stored properly.
8. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried tomatoes?
Yes, cherry or grape tomatoes are a great fresh alternative.
9. What can I serve with Tuscan Pasta Salad?
It pairs well with grilled meats, crusty bread, or as a side to soups.
10. Can I freeze this pasta salad?
Freezing is not recommended as the fresh vegetables and dressing do not thaw well.
Conclusion
Tuscan Pasta Salad is a versatile and delicious dish that brings Mediterranean flavors to your table. Whether for a quick lunch or a crowd-pleasing side, this salad is sure to impress. Make it your own with your favorite ingredients and enjoy a fresh, flavorful, and satisfying meal!
Print
Tuscan Pasta Salad
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Salad, Side Dish
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian, Mediterranean
Description
This Tuscan Pasta Salad is a fresh and flavorful dish packed with Mediterranean-inspired ingredients. Tender pasta is tossed with juicy cherry tomatoes, olives, artichokes, sun-dried tomatoes, and a zesty homemade Italian dressing. It’s perfect as a side dish or a light lunch, and great for potlucks or picnics!
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 8 ounces (225 g) rotini or penne pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup baby spinach, roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup marinated artichoke hearts, chopped
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup cubed mozzarella or crumbled feta cheese (optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp honey or sugar
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
-
Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking. Set aside.
-
Prepare the Dressing:
- In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until well combined.
-
Assemble the Salad:
- In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, spinach, artichoke hearts, olives, sun-dried tomatoes, red onion, cheese (if using), and fresh basil.
-
Dress the Salad:
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is evenly coated.
-
Chill and Serve:
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld. Serve cold or at room temperature.
Notes
- Make Ahead: This salad can be made up to a day in advance. Just add the fresh basil right before serving.
- Add Protein: For a more filling meal, add grilled chicken, chickpeas, or tuna.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.