Tina'S Pasta Salad
Colorful and flavorful pasta salad featuring fresh vegetables, herbs, and cheese, perfect for gatherings, picnics, or casual lunches with a vibrant Mediterranean flair.
Ingredients
- 2 Tbsp oregano
- 2 Tbsp basil
- 1 Tbsp garlic powder ⓘ
- salt and pepper to taste ⓘ
- 1 lb tri-color spiral noodles
- 1 can large pitted black olives
- 2 (16 oz) cans artichoke hearts
- 1/4 c sliced purple onion ⓘ
- 1 basket whole mushrooms ⓘ
- 1 cucumber
- 1 basket cherry tomatoes ⓘ
- 1/2 lb broccoli tops
- 1 1/2 c Jack cheese ⓘ
Instructions
- Cook the tri-color spiral noodles according to package instructions, then drain and let cool.
- Marinate the artichoke hearts overnight with oregano, basil, sliced purple onion, and dressing.
- Slice the cucumber, purple onion, mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, and broccoli tops into bite-sized pieces.
- Cube the Jack cheese and prepare the black olives by draining.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled noodles, marinated artichoke hearts, olives, cucumbers, onions, mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, broccoli, and cheese.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste and toss gently to combine.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist on flavors, consider adding feta cheese or substituting sun-dried tomatoes for cherry tomatoes. If you're short on time, you can use pre-marinated artichokes. Feel free to adjust the herbs based on your preference; fresh herbs can elevate this dish. For an extra crunch, add some toasted pine nuts or walnuts. This pasta salad pairs well with Mediterranean recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this pasta salad as a side dish at picnics or barbecues. It goes well with grilled meats, such as Pork Chops Braised In White Wine, or alongside a Fresh Spinach And Basil Salad for a light meal. Garnish with fresh herbs for presentation and a burst of flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen as it sits. If the pasta absorbs too much dressing, add a splash of olive oil or vinegar before serving. Avoid reheating, as this dish is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tina'S Pasta Salad contains roughly 52 calories, with 3g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 881mg per serving (38% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pasta salad a day in advance. Just keep it refrigerated and give it a gentle toss before serving to redistribute the dressing and flavors. However, it's best to add any delicate ingredients, like cherry tomatoes, closer to serving time to keep them fresh.
What can I substitute for tri-color spiral noodles?
You can substitute tri-color spiral noodles with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, rotini, or even whole wheat pasta for a healthier option. Just ensure the cooking time is adjusted accordingly based on the pasta you choose.
Is this pasta salad suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this pasta salad is completely vegetarian and can also be made vegan by omitting the Jack cheese or using a dairy-free alternative. It's a colorful and nutritious option suitable for various dietary preferences.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).