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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines the rich, tangy taste of sun-dried tomatoes with al dente pasta and a medley of Mediterranean-inspired ingredients. Perfect as a side dish or a light main course, it’s easy to prepare, holds up well for gatherings, and is bursting with bold, savory flavors that elevate any meal.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

pastasun-dried tomatoes (in oil)olive oilgarliccherry tomatoeskalamata olivesred onionfeta cheesefresh basilorigano salt and pepper

directions

Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and let cool.

In a large bowl, combine chopped sun-dried tomatoes, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced red onion, and pitted kalamata olives.

In a small skillet, heat a bit of olive oil and sauté minced garlic just until fragrant.

Add the sautéed garlic, a few tablespoons of the sun-dried tomato oil, and a drizzle of fresh olive oil to the bowl.

Toss the cooled pasta into the bowl with the veggies and mix well.

Crumble in the feta cheese and season with oregano, salt, and pepper to taste.

Add freshly chopped basil and gently toss everything together until well combined.

Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving for best flavor.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.Preparation time: 15 minutesCooking time: 10 minutesChilling time: 30 minutesTotal time: 55 minutes

Variations

Add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.

Use mozzarella pearls instead of feta for a milder flavor.

Substitute arugula or spinach for added greens.

Include roasted red peppers or artichoke hearts for more depth.

Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta based on preference.

storage/reheating

Store Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Best served cold or at room temperature. Reheating is not recommended, as it may alter the texture of the ingredients.

FAQs

Can I use dry sun-dried tomatoes instead of those in oil?

Yes, but you’ll need to rehydrate them in warm water and add extra olive oil to compensate for flavor.

Is this pasta salad good for meal prep?

Absolutely. It holds up well in the fridge and tastes even better after the flavors meld.

What pasta works best?

Short pasta like fusilli, penne, or farfalle are ideal for holding onto the dressing and mix-ins.

Can I make it vegan?

Yes, just skip the feta or use a plant-based alternative.

Is it safe to leave out at a picnic?

Yes, but for no longer than 2 hours at room temperature. Keep chilled when possible.

Can I freeze this salad?

Freezing is not recommended due to the fresh veggies and cheese.

What if I don’t like olives?

You can omit them or replace with capers for a similar briny note.

Does it work as a main dish?

Yes, especially when paired with protein or served with crusty bread.

Can I add nuts?

Yes, pine nuts or chopped walnuts add great texture and flavor.

How do I keep pasta from sticking?

Toss it with a little olive oil after draining to prevent clumping.

Conclusion

Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Salad is a zesty, refreshing dish perfect for any season. With its colorful ingredients and bold flavors, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make ahead and versatile enough to suit any taste. Whether you serve it at a picnic, potluck, or weekday lunch, it’s sure to become a favorite.