Pasta salad has been around since the late 19th century and is a popular dish in both the United States and Europe. It is a dish that is easy to prepare and can be customized with different ingredients. Pasta salads can be enjoyed as a side dish, a light meal, or as a main dish.
The classic pasta salad combines cooked pasta, vegetables, and dressing. This simple combination is versatile and can be made with any type of pasta and any type of vegetables. It can also be topped with cheese, herbs, and nuts.
Today, we’re going to make a spicy penne pasta salad. This delicious and easy-to-make salad is a great way to add a kick of flavor to your meal.
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 red pepper, diced
- 1 green pepper, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/2 cup of artichoke hearts
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cook Time:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the penne and cook for 8-10 minutes, or according to the package instructions.
- Drain the penne and transfer to a large bowl.
Instructions:
- Add the olive oil, red pepper, green pepper, cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, artichokes, basil, and red pepper flakes to the bowl.
- Drizzle the red wine vinegar over the top and mix everything together.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Transfer the pasta salad to a serving bowl.
Garnishes:
- Chopped fresh parsley
- Chopped fresh basil
- Toasted pine nuts
Optional Garnishes:
- Crumbled bacon
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Chopped olives
Kitchen Equipment:
- Pot
- Colander
- Mixing bowl
- Serving bowl
This spicy penne pasta salad is sure to become a favorite in your home. Serve it as a side dish or a light meal. For a heartier meal, top it with grilled chicken or shrimp. Enjoy!
Need ideas for a main? Pick out these dish recipes for inspiration.