easy homemade pasta salad

Pasta salad is one of the most popular dishes for a picnic or party. It is easy to make and can be customized with your favorite ingredients. Homemade pasta salad is a great way to make a quick and delicious meal that everyone will love. Here is a simple and delicious recipe for easy homemade pasta salad.

Ingredients

For this easy homemade pasta salad, you will need the following ingredients:

1 pound of your favorite small pasta (such as rotini, shells, or macaroni)
1/4 cup of extra-virgin olive oil
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes
1/4 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon of sea salt
1/4 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper
1/2 cup of chopped fresh basil
1/2 cup of chopped fresh parsley
1/2 cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes
1/2 cup of sliced black olives
1/2 cup of crumbled feta cheese

Instructions

To make this easy homemade pasta salad, first cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain the pasta and rinse with cold water. Set aside.

In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, garlic, red pepper flakes, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Add the cooked pasta and toss to coat. Add the basil, parsley, sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese and toss to combine. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to three days.

Tips for Making the Best Pasta Salad

Use a good-quality extra-virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
Add a variety of vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, and celery to the salad.
For a creamy version of the salad, add a few tablespoons of mayonnaise or yogurt.
For a vegan version, use vegan cheese and leave out the feta cheese.
For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does pasta salad last?

Pasta salad will last up to three days in the refrigerator. Be sure to store it in an airtight container.

Can you make pasta salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can make pasta salad ahead of time. This is a great way to get a head start on a meal for a picnic or party.

Can you freeze pasta salad?

No, it is not recommended to freeze pasta salad. The texture of the pasta will be affected and it can become mushy after being frozen.

What are some variations of pasta salad?

There are many variations of pasta salad. You can customize your salad with different types of pasta, vegetables, cheeses, herbs, and dressings. Get creative and experiment with different ingredients.