Now, let’s dive into a dish that’s as vibrant as your summer parties should be. This Kraft Zesty Italian Pasta Salad is not just a side dish; it’s the main event, packed with flavors that dance on your palate.
Why This Recipe Works
- The zesty Italian dressing brings a tangy and herby punch that elevates the pasta beyond the ordinary.
- It’s incredibly versatile, allowing you to throw in whatever veggies you have lying around.
- Perfect for meal prep, as the flavors meld and intensify when stored in the fridge.
- Quick and easy to make, requiring minimal cooking skills but delivering maximum taste.
- The colorful ingredients make it as pleasing to the eye as it is to the taste buds.
Ingredients
- 1 lb rotini pasta
- 1 cup Kraft Zesty Italian Dressing
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
Equipment Needed
- Large pot
- Colander
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Instructions
Boil the Pasta to Perfection
Fill your large pot with water and bring it to a rolling boil. Add a generous pinch of salt to season the water. Toss in the rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain the pasta in a colander and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down for the salad.
Chop and Prep Your Veggies
While the pasta is cooking, take this time to halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber, thinly slice the red onion, and slice the black olives. Having all your veggies prepped and ready to go makes assembling the salad a breeze.
Combine Everything in a Large Bowl
In your large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, prepared veggies, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped fresh basil. Drizzle the Kraft Zesty Italian Dressing over the top. Here’s a tip: start with 3/4 cup of dressing, mix, then add more to taste. This ensures your salad isn’t overdressed.
Toss and Taste
Gently toss all the ingredients together until everything is evenly coated with the dressing. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Sometimes a little extra salt or a squeeze of lemon juice can brighten up the flavors even more.
Chill Before Serving
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving. This resting time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Tip: If you’re in a hurry, you can serve it immediately, but the flavors won’t be as developed.
Tips and Tricks
For an extra flavor boost, consider marinating the red onions in a bit of the dressing before adding them to the salad. This takes the edge off the onions and infuses them with the zesty Italian flavors. If you’re not a fan of feta, mozzarella pearls or grated Parmesan are great substitutes. For a bit of crunch, add some toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds. Always reserve a little dressing to add right before serving, as the pasta tends to absorb the dressing over time.
Recipe Variations
- Protein Power: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to turn this salad into a hearty main dish.
- Veggie Delight: Throw in some bell peppers, artichoke hearts, or avocado for extra veggies.
- Cheese Swap: Try goat cheese or blue cheese instead of feta for a different flavor profile.
- Pasta Switch: Use bowtie or penne pasta for a different texture and look.
- Dressing Change: Experiment with ranch or balsamic vinaigrette for a different taste.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! This pasta salad is perfect for making ahead. In fact, it tastes better after the flavors have had time to meld in the fridge. Just hold off on adding all the dressing at once and add a little extra before serving to freshen it up.
How long does this pasta salad last in the fridge?
Stored in an airtight container, this pasta salad will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. After that, the veggies may start to lose their crunch, and the pasta can become a bit mushy.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any short pasta shape you like. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the pasta you choose, so be sure to cook it al dente to prevent it from becoming too soft in the salad.
Summary
This Kraft Zesty Italian Pasta Salad is a vibrant, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Easy to make and customizable, it’s sure to be a hit at your next gathering or as a tasty meal prep option.
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