The Sundried Tomato pasta salad is a vibrant and delightful dish that transcends the boundaries of a simple recipe. It embodies the essence of Mediterranean cuisine with its sun-kissed tomatoes that offer a burst of intense, concentrated flavor. The pasta, lovingly coated in a tangy dressing, becomes a canvas for a symphony of complementary ingredients. Each bite is a journey through textures and tastes, with the chewiness of al dente pasta mingling with the tender, chewy sundried tomatoes and the crunch of fresh vegetables. The salad is a vibrant mosaic of colors, a visual feast that captures the essence of summertime on a plate. It is a testament to the harmonious blend of ingredients, the balance between the sweet and the savory, and the richness of flavors that leave an indelible impression. The Sundried Tomato pasta salad is more than just a dish—it is a celebration of freshness, creativity, and the joy of savoring the simple pleasures of life.
Ingredients for Sundried Tomato pasta salad
⦁ – 375 g / 12 oz spiral pasta, or other pasta of choice
⦁ – 220 g / 7 oz jar sun-dried tomato strips in oil
⦁ – 2 cups (packed) shredded cooked chicken
⦁ – 250 g / 1 1/2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
⦁ – 75 g / 2.5 oz baby spinach (2 big handfuls)
⦁ – 1 small red onion, quartered and finely sliced
⦁ – 1 tsp mixed dried herbs
⦁ – 100 g / 3 oz feta, crumbled
Dressing:
⦁ – 1/3 cup / 85 ml oil from sun-dried tomatoes
⦁ – 2 tbsp white wine vinegar
⦁ – 1 garlic clove, minced
⦁ – 1 tsp Dijon mustard
⦁ – 1 tsp white sugar
⦁ – 1 tsp mixed dried herbs
⦁ – 3/4 tsp salt
⦁ – 1/2 tsp pepper
Steps to make Sundried Tomato pasta salad
Step 1
Start by preparing the dressing. Begin by draining the oil from the jar of sun-dried tomatoes. Make sure to reserve any excess oil for future use. Then, add the remaining dressing ingredients, including the measured sun-dried tomato oil, and mix everything well. This flavorful dressing will bring together all the elements of the salad.
Step 2
Proceed to cook the pasta. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the instructions on the packet. Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and give it a quick rinse under cold water. This will help cool down the pasta and stop the cooking process.
Step 3
Now it’s time to assemble the salad. Transfer the cooked cool pasta into a large bowl. Add the baby spinach, shredded cooked chicken, halved cherry tomatoes, and finely sliced red onion to the bowl. Then, pour the prepared dressing over the ingredients. Ensure that all the components are well coated with the dressing.Toss everything together. Carefully mix the salad ingredients, ensuring that the dressing is evenly distributed. To add an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle some dried herbs over the salad and give it another toss. The herbs will contribute aromatic notes and enhance the overall taste profile.
Step 4
Just before serving, give the salad a final touch. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top of the salad. The creamy and tangy feta will provide a delightful contrast to the other ingredients. Remember, this salad is best enjoyed at room temperature, allowing all the flavors to harmonize beautifully.
Nutrition Facts
⦁ – Calories: 410
⦁ – Carbohydrates: 40g
⦁ – Protein: 18g
⦁ – Fat: 21g
⦁ – Saturated Fat: 5g
⦁ – Polyunsaturated Fat: 5g
⦁ – Monounsaturated Fat: 10g
⦁ – Trans Fat: 0g
⦁ – Cholesterol: 45mg
⦁ – Sodium: 560mg
⦁ – Potassium: 500mg
⦁ – Fiber: 4g
⦁ – Sugar: 5g
⦁ – Vitamin A: 1500IU
⦁ – Vitamin C: 20mg
⦁ – Calcium: 150mg
⦁ – Iron: 3mg
People also Read
How to make California roll filling
Simple California Fish Tacos 2023
Best Santa Maria Style BBQ Recipe 2023
Simple And Easy Animal Style Fries Recipe 2023
Delicious Baja Fish Tacos 2023
Delicious Chinese Chicken Salad Recipe 2023
Steps to avoid while preparing Sundried Tomato pasta salad
1. Do not overcook the pasta: Follow the instructions on the pasta package and cook it until it is al dente. Overcooking can result in a mushy texture, which may affect the overall quality of the salad.
2. Avoid using excessive dressing: While the dressing adds flavor and moisture to the salad, using too much can make it overly oily or heavy. Start by adding a moderate amount of dressing and gradually adjust to your taste preference.
3. Be cautious with salt: Some of the ingredients, such as the sun-dried tomatoes and feta cheese, can already be salty. It’s advisable to taste the salad before adding additional salt to avoid making it overly salty.
4. Don’t forget to cool the pasta: Rinse the cooked pasta with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down. This prevents the pasta from becoming sticky and clumping together in the salad.
5. Avoid preparing the salad too far in advance: While it can be refrigerated, the flavors and textures are best when enjoyed fresh. If you need to prepare it ahead of time, wait to add the dressing and feta cheese until just before serving.
FAQ
1. Q: How do I make a delicious sundried tomato pasta salad?
A: To make a delicious sundried tomato pasta salad, cook your favorite pasta according to package instructions, then mix it with chopped sundried tomatoes, fresh vegetables (such as cucumbers, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes), feta cheese, olives, and a tangy dressing of your choice. Toss everything together until well combined, and serve chilled.
2. Q: What are some variations of sundried tomato pasta salad?
A: There are several variations you can try. For instance, you can add grilled chicken or shrimp to make it more protein-rich. You can also incorporate other ingredients like fresh herbs (such as basil or parsley) for added flavor, or swap feta cheese for goat cheese or Parmesan for a different taste profile.
3. Q: How long does sundried tomato pasta salad last in the refrigerator?
A: Sundried tomato pasta salad can typically last for about 3-4 days when stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator. However, it’s always best to check for any signs of spoilage before consuming.
4. Q: Can I make sundried tomato pasta salad ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make sundried tomato pasta salad ahead of time. In fact, it often tastes even better when the flavors have had time to meld together. Prepare the salad as usual, refrigerate it, and give it a good stir before serving.
5. Q: Is sundried tomato pasta salad a good option for vegetarians?
A: Yes, sundried tomato pasta salad can be a great option for vegetarians. It’s packed with flavorful ingredients and can be easily customized to suit different dietary preferences.
6. Q: Can I substitute fresh tomatoes for sundried tomatoes in the pasta salad?
A: While sundried tomatoes have a distinct concentrated flavor, you can substitute them with fresh tomatoes if you prefer. Just keep in mind that the taste and texture of the salad may vary slightly.
7. Q: What dressing goes well with sundried tomato pasta salad?
A: Many dressings complement sundried tomato pasta salad. Some popular options include balsamic vinaigrette, Italian dressing, lemon vinaigrette, or a simple olive oil and vinegar combination. Choose a dressing that complements the flavors of the other ingredients in your salad.
8. Q: Can I make a gluten-free version of sundried tomato pasta salad?
A: Yes, you can make a gluten-free version of sundried tomato pasta salad by using gluten-free pasta. There are many gluten-free pasta options available, such as those made from rice, corn, or quinoa.
9. Q: What are some ways to add extra protein to sundried tomato pasta salad?
A: To add extra protein to sundried tomato pasta salad, you can include ingredients like grilled chicken, cooked shrimp, canned beans (such as chickpeas or cannellini beans), or tofu. These additions will not only boost the protein content but also enhance the overall taste and texture.
10. Q: Are there any other similar pasta salad recipes I can try?
A: Absolutely! There are numerous pasta salad recipes you can explore. Some popular ones include Greek pasta salad, caprese pasta salad, pesto pasta salad, and Mediterranean pasta salad. Each recipe offers its own unique combination of flavors and ingredients to suit different preferences.