We all love a good salad, but when it comes to pasta house salad, there’s something about it that feels a little extra special. It’s the kind of salad that pairs perfectly with just about any meal, adds that refreshing crunch, and gives you just the right amount of comfort with every bite.
So, if you’re tired of the same old side salads and craving something new yet familiar, look no further! Today, we’re diving into a simple yet irresistible pasta house salad recipe that will quickly become your go-to dish for any occasion.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, prepping for a week of lunches, or just looking for a quick, flavorful side to enjoy with dinner, this pasta house salad delivers every time. Packed with fresh veggies, perfectly cooked pasta, and topped with a zesty dressing, it’s a crowd-pleaser through and through.
Ready to take your salad game to the next level? Let’s get started!
Why You’ll Love This Pasta House Salad
Before we jump into the recipe, let’s take a moment to appreciate why this pasta house salad is a must-try.
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Versatility: This salad can be easily customized. Add your favorite veggies or proteins like grilled chicken, shrimp, or even pepperoni slices to make it your own.
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Quick and Easy: With just a handful of ingredients, this salad comes together in a snap. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
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Hearty Yet Light: Thanks to the pasta, this salad feels filling without being heavy, making it a great side dish that complements anything from grilled meats to pizza.
Ingredients for Your Pasta House Salad
The beauty of a pasta house salad is in its simplicity, but it’s also easy to make it your own. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Salad:
- 2 cups rotini pasta (or any pasta shape you prefer)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, sliced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 bell pepper, diced (any color)
- 1/4 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp honey (optional for sweetness)
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Pasta House Salad
Let’s dive into the easy-to-follow steps to create this pasta house salad that will have everyone asking for seconds.
1. Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling the rotini pasta (or your pasta of choice) according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and rinse the pasta under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down. This helps prevent the pasta from becoming mushy and makes it perfect for salads.
Pro Tip: For extra flavor, toss the pasta in a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Veggies
While the pasta is cooling, prep your veggies. Slice the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and bell pepper into bite-sized pieces. Don’t forget to slice the olives and chop the parsley.
3. Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey (if using), and minced garlic. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you prefer a creamier dressing, you can stir in a spoonful of mayonnaise or Greek yogurt.
4. Toss It All Together
Once the pasta is cooled and the veggies are prepped, it’s time to assemble your salad! In a large bowl, combine the pasta, vegetables, olives, and feta cheese. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss everything together until well-coated.
5. Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle the fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and extra flavor. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for about 30 minutes to let the flavors marinate.
Customizing Your Pasta House Salad
While this recipe is already delicious on its own, you can easily customize it to your liking. Here are a few ideas to make this pasta house salad your own:
- Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or even turkey for a protein-packed salad that can serve as a meal.
- Cheese Options: If you’re not a fan of feta, try mozzarella, Parmesan, or goat cheese for a different twist.
- Vegan Version: Skip the cheese and add in some chickpeas, tofu, or avocado to make it vegan-friendly.
- Veggies Galore: Mix in any of your favorite veggies like roasted red peppers, artichokes, or avocado slices for extra texture and flavor.
Tips for the Perfect Pasta House Salad
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Don’t Overcook the Pasta: For the best texture, cook your pasta al dente. This ensures it doesn’t get too soft in the salad.
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Chill Before Serving: Allowing the salad to sit in the fridge for about 30 minutes helps the flavors meld together, making it even more delicious.
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Adjust the Dressing: Depending on your taste, you can tweak the dressing. If you like a tangier salad, add more vinegar; for a sweeter touch, increase the honey or Dijon mustard.
Why This Pasta House Salad is a Winner
This pasta house salad isn’t just easy to make; it’s a flavorful and versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a light side dish, a picnic companion, or a hearty salad to take to your next potluck, this recipe is sure to be a hit. And with its customizable nature, you can always make it fit your personal preferences.
Ready to Dig In?
Now that you know how to make this vibrant, tasty pasta house salad, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get to work! With fresh veggies, hearty pasta, and a tangy homemade dressing, this salad is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
The best part? You can make it your own by adding proteins, extra veggies, or swapping in different cheeses.
Give it a try today, and let me know how it turns out! Want to see more fun and flavorful recipes like this one? Stick around for more culinary adventures—your taste buds will thank you.
