Tuscan Harvest Pasta Salad is a vibrant, Mediterranean-inspired dish that brings together the fresh flavors of Italy in one colorful bowl. Perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for your next gathering, this pasta salad is as easy to make as it is delicious to eat. Let’s dive into this refreshing culinary treat!
Whole wheat rotini adds a slightly nutty flavor while offering more fiber than regular pasta, making the salad more satisfying. The cherry tomatoes bring a burst of juiciness and sweetness, perfect for cutting through the richness of the other ingredients. Artichoke hearts and roasted red peppers add a Mediterranean flair, with their tender texture and deep flavor. The black olives offer a salty punch, while the red onion provides a bit of sharpness to balance everything out. Feta cheese crumbles add a creamy, tangy element that ties the salad together. Fresh basil infuses the dish with its aromatic sweetness. The dressing, made from extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, and garlic, brings everything together with a zesty finish.
This pasta salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish for a light meal. It’s also an excellent addition to a picnic spread or a barbecue. Try serving it alongside a crusty loaf of bread to soak up any extra dressing and juices.
Start by cooking the whole wheat rotini according to the package instructions. You want it to be al dente, with a slight bite, so check it a minute before the suggested time. Once cooked, drain and rinse it under cold water to cool it down quickly and stop the cooking process. This also keeps the pasta from sticking together.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, quartered artichoke hearts, sliced roasted red peppers, black olives, thinly sliced red onion, and crumbled feta cheese. Make sure to mix gently so the ingredients are evenly distributed without mashing them.
Next, prepare the dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning as needed. Pour this zesty dressing over the cooled pasta and veggies.
Gently toss everything together to ensure the dressing coats all the ingredients evenly. Add the chopped basil last, giving the salad one final toss. This step ensures that the basil stays vibrant and fresh.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making each bite flavorful and cohesive.
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