This Citrus Herb Pasta Salad is your new go-to for a refreshing, vibrant dish that's perfect for any gathering or a simple weekday meal. With its zesty citrus dressing and fresh herbs, it's a delightful twist on a classic favorite.
Let's dive into what makes this salad special. The star of the show is the rotini pasta, which catches all the delicious dressing in its spirals, ensuring each bite is flavorful. Olive oil forms the base of the dressing, adding richness and a smooth texture. The lemon juice and lime juice bring a tangy brightness, while the orange zest adds a subtle sweetness that ties everything together.
Cherry tomatoes provide a burst of juicy sweetness, contrasting beautifully with the sharpness of the red onion. The cucumber adds a refreshing crunch, while fresh parsley and basil infuse the salad with herby aromas. Finally, feta cheese adds a creamy, salty finish that's simply irresistible. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and you're all set!
This salad is fantastic on its own or as a side to a grilled chicken breast or fish. It's also lovely served alongside a simple green salad. For an outdoor gathering, pair it with a light, chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc.
Start by cooking your rotini pasta according to the package instructions until it's perfectly al dente. You want a bit of bite to your pasta, so don't let it get mushy. Once cooked, drain it, then give it a quick rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down. This step is key to preventing a gummy salad.
While your pasta is cooling, whisk together your olive oil, lemon juice, lime juice, and orange zest in a small bowl. This will be your zesty dressing. It’s quick, simple, and full of flavor.
In a large bowl, combine your cooled pasta with the cherry tomatoes, red onion, cucumber, parsley, and basil. Pour the dressing over this mix and toss everything together until the pasta is well-coated and the veggies are evenly distributed.
Gently fold in the feta cheese. You want to be gentle here to keep those nice chunks of cheese intact. Finally, taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. Cover the bowl and let it chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to come together beautifully.
Share