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Pasta Salad and Feta Cheese

2023-08-08

By Healthy Eater

Mediterranean

Salad

Time-Saving Tips for Making Pasta Salad with Feta Cheese Using Modern Kitchen Tools

Instant Pot for Fast, Perfectly Cooked Gluten-Free Pasta

Add your gluten-free pasta and enough water to cover it, then set the Instant Pot to cook on high pressure for 4-6 minutes (depending on the type of pasta)

Air Fryer for Roasting Vegetables in Minutes

For added flavor and texture in your pasta salad, try roasting vegetables in the Air Fryer. Chop vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes, drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper, then air fry at 375°F for 10-12 minutes.

Induction Stove for Fast Sautéing of Feta and Herbs

Use it to quickly sauté fresh herbs, garlic, or any other ingredients you want to add to your pasta salad. The even heat distribution of the induction stove ensures that your ingredients cook quickly without burning.

Tips and Suggestions on Pasta Salad and Feta Cheese

Choose the right pasta

For pasta salad, use short pasta shapes like fusilli, penne, or rotini. They hold dressing and ingredients better than long pasta like spaghetti.

Use high-quality feta

Opt for authentic Greek feta cheese, preferably in brine. It will add a creamy texture and a tangy flavor to balance the pasta and veggies.

Let the pasta cool

After cooking the pasta, let it cool before adding it to the salad. This helps prevent it from becoming mushy and ensures better texture when mixed with the other ingredients.

Balance flavors

Add a mix of fresh vegetables like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions, along with olives or herbs, to balance the richness of the feta cheese and pasta.

Dress just before serving

To avoid soggy pasta, add the dressing just before serving. You can use a vinaigrette or lemon-based dressing to complement the feta's tanginess.

Chill for better flavor

Let the salad chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld together and enhances the overall taste of the salad.

Classic Pasta Salad and Feta Cheese Recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 lb farfaline pasta
  • 4 cups dandelion greens, chopped
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup kalamata olives, chopped
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1 tbsp dijon mustard
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the farfaline pasta according to package instructions, then rinse it under cold water and set aside.
  2. In a separate bowl, combine the chopped dandelion greens, cherry tomatoes, kalamata olives, crumbled feta cheese, and thinly sliced red onion.
  3. In a small bowl, make the dressing by whisking together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
  4. Add the cooked farfaline pasta to the bowl with the salad ingredients, then pour the dressing over everything. Toss to combine.
  5. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to eat.

Cooking Time

Preparation Time 10 min

Cook Time 15 min

Total time 25 min

Nutrition Facts

  • Calories: 550
  • Total Fat: 22g
  • Total Carbohydrates: 73g
  • Fiber: 8g
  • Sugar: 10g
  • Protein: 20g
  • Sodium: 750mg

Regional Variations for Pasta Salad and Feta Cheese

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