Ditalini Pasta Salad

Ditalini Pasta Salad is a delightful dish that perfectly balances fresh flavors and satisfying textures, making it a go-to choice for picnics, barbecues, or a simple weeknight dinner. This salad is not only vibrant and colorful but also quick and easy to make. Packed with nutrient-rich ingredients, it’s a healthy option that doesn’t compromise on taste.

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

• Calories per serving: 280
• Protein: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fat: 12g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 200mg

Why Make This Ditalini Pasta Salad

Ditalini Pasta Salad stands out because it’s incredibly versatile and adaptable. You can serve it cold or at room temperature, allowing for easy meal prep and enjoyment no matter the weather. The combination of al dente pasta with crisp vegetables and creamy feta cheese creates a burst of flavor with every bite. Plus, it’s suitable for various dietary preferences, making it perfect for gatherings. Impress your family and friends with this delightful, vibrant dish that will have them asking for seconds!

How to Make Ditalini Pasta Salad

Creating the perfect Ditalini Pasta Salad is simple and straightforward. Follow these easy steps to craft a dish that’s both delicious and fresh.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups ditalini pasta
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup cucumber, diced
• 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

• Step 1: Cooking the Pasta

  Cook the ditalini pasta according to package instructions. Once cooked, drain and let it cool. This ensures the pasta retains its texture and does not become mushy when mixed with the other fresh ingredients.

• Step 2: Combining Ingredients

  In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, feta cheese, and fresh parsley. The beautiful mix of colors and textures will make your salad visually appealing.

• Step 3: Preparing the Dressing

  In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper. This simple dressing adds a zesty flavor that brings the entire salad together.

• Step 4: Tossing the Salad

  Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss to combine. Make sure all ingredients are evenly coated to maximize taste in each bite.

• Step 5: Serving

  Serve the salad chilled or at room temperature for the best flavor experience.

How to Serve Ditalini Pasta Salad

Serve your Ditalini Pasta Salad as a refreshing side dish at barbecues or gatherings, or make it the star of a light lunch. Pair it with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. For a more casual setting, pack it in lunch boxes or serve it at picnics.

How to Store Ditalini Pasta Salad

Keep any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for up to 3 days. However, it’s best to consume it within two days for optimum freshness, as the vegetables may soften over time.

Expert Tips for Perfect Ditalini Pasta Salad

• To keep your salad extra fresh, add the dressing just before serving.
• Customize your salad by adding other ingredients like bell peppers, olives, or artichokes for an extra burst of flavor.
• If you prefer a vegan version, swap out the feta cheese for a plant-based alternative.
• Cooking the pasta al dente ensures it maintains a good bite and texture when chilled.

Delicious Variations

• Italian Style: Add sliced pepperoni or salami and Italian seasoning for a meat lover’s twist.
• Mediterranean Flair: Include kalamata olives, bell peppers, and a squeeze of lemon juice.
• Greek Inspiration: Mix in sun-dried tomatoes and use oregano as an extra seasoning.
• Herb-Infused: Experiment with different herbs such as basil or mint to change the flavor dynamics.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I use a different type of pasta?
  Yes! Feel free to substitute the ditalini pasta with any short pasta, such as small shells or macaroni.

• How can I make this salad ahead of time?
  You can prepare the pasta and chop the vegetables a day in advance. Keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve.

• Is this salad gluten-free?
  To make a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta alternatives available at most grocery stores.

• Can I add protein to this salad?
  Absolutely! Grilled chicken, tuna, or chickpeas can make this salad more filling.

• What should I serve with this pasta salad?
  It pairs well with grilled meats, sandwiches, or as a standalone dish for a light meal.

Conclusion

Ditalini Pasta Salad is a delightful and easy recipe that celebrates fresh ingredients and bold flavors. Its versatility makes it a perfect dish for nearly any occasion—from summer gatherings to cozy dinners. With the practicality of quick preparation and storage, this salad will surely become a staple in your recipe rotation. Give it a try, and you’ll be amazed at just how delicious and refreshing this simple dish can be!

Ditalini Pasta Salad

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• Author: lydia
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A delightful dish that balances fresh flavors and satisfying textures, perfect for picnics and barbecues.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups ditalini pasta
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup cucumber, diced
• 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Cook the ditalini pasta according to package instructions. Once cooked, drain and let it cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, feta cheese, and fresh parsley.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss to combine.
5. Serve the salad chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

To keep your salad extra fresh, add the dressing just before serving. Customize your salad with other ingredients like bell peppers or olives.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: No Cooking Required
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 280
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 200mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 8g
• Cholesterol: 15mg