Spanish Pasta Salad Recipe

Spanish Pasta Salad is the ultimate dish that brings a burst of sunshine to any table. With vibrant colors and bold flavors, it’s like a fiesta in a bowl.

This salad is all about simple ingredients coming together for a deliciously satisfying meal. Think juicy tomatoes, briny olives, and a zesty dressing that ties it all together.

Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or just a cozy night in, it’s a no-fuss recipe that’s as easy to whip up as it is to enjoy. Get ready to celebrate crunchy, colorful goodness that’s sure to impress!

What You’ll Need

Ready to whip up a colorful and tasty Spanish Pasta Salad? Here’s everything you need to get started!

• 8 oz penne pasta, cooked and drained
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup artichoke hearts, quartered
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
• 1/2 cup green olives, pitted
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste

For the Dressing

• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1/2 lemon, juice only
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano

How to Make It

Ready to whip up a tasty Spanish Pasta Salad? Just follow these easy-peasy steps, and you’ll have a vibrant bowl of goodness in no time. Let’s get cooking!

1. Cook the pasta: Boil a pot of salted water and cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool.
2. Prep the veggies: While the pasta cools, halve the cherry tomatoes, quarter the artichoke hearts, and pit the Kalamata and green olives. Set them aside in a large mixing bowl.
3. Add the herbs: Toss the chopped fresh parsley and torn basil leaves into the bowl with the veggies, bringing in that fresh flavor.
4. Mix in the pasta: Once the pasta has cooled, add it to the bowl with the veggies and herbs. Give it a good toss to combine everything.
5. Make the dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and dried oregano until well blended.
6. Season it up: Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes to the dressing, then season with salt and black pepper to taste.
7. Dress the salad: Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss everything together until the pasta and veggies are well coated.
8. Chill and serve: Let the salad sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to let those flavors mingle. Serve it up cold and enjoy your colorful creation!

Ready to dig in? This Spanish Pasta Salad is a total crowd-pleaser and perfect for any occasion!

How to Tweak It

Ready to elevate your Spanish Pasta Salad? Here are some fun tweaks to make it even more delicious and colorful.

• Swap the pasta: Try using whole grain or chickpea pasta for a different texture and added nutrition. It’ll give your salad a nice twist while keeping it hearty.
• Add some crunch: Toss in some toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds for an extra layer of crunch. They’ll add a delightful nutty flavor that complements the salad perfectly.
• Mix in some cheese: Crumbled feta or shaved Parmesan can amp up the creaminess and flavor. Just sprinkle it on top before serving for a tasty finish.
• Go for a zesty dressing: Swap out the red wine vinegar for balsamic vinegar or apple cider vinegar for a different zing. It’ll change the flavor profile in a fun way.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of cumin to the dressing for a smoky kick. It’ll bring a whole new vibe to your salad.
• Bulk it up: Throw in some chickpeas or white beans for added protein and substance. They’ll make this salad even more filling and satisfying.
• Freshen it up: Add in some diced cucumber or bell peppers for extra crunch and color. They’ll brighten up the salad and add a refreshing element.

And that’s a wrap on this Spanish Pasta Salad Recipe! I can’t wait to hear how it turns out for you. Drop a comment below if you have any questions or want to share your thoughts. Did you switch things up a bit? I’d love to know! Happy crunching!