Searching for a refreshing and flavorful summer dish that’s both easy to make and packed with nutrients? Look no further than our strawberry balsamic pasta salad recipe. This tantalizing dish combines juicy strawberries, tangy balsamic vinegar, and tender pasta for a taste sensation that will leave you craving for more. Not only is it a vibrant and delightful addition to any picnic or barbecue, but it’s also a healthy and wholesome meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
As you embark on this culinary adventure, you’ll be amazed by how quickly this salad comes together. In just a matter of minutes, you’ll have a delightful dish that’s bursting with summery flavors. So, gather your ingredients, prepare your taste buds, and let’s dive into the sweet and tangy world of our strawberry balsamic pasta salad recipe.
Before we jump into the recipe, let’s take a moment to appreciate its nutritional value. This salad is a rich source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Strawberries are packed with vitamin C, which supports immune health and collagen production. Balsamic vinegar is known for its antioxidant properties, which help protect against cell damage. And pasta provides a good source of carbohydrates for sustained energy.
Ingredients & Equipment
To create this mouthwatering strawberry balsamic pasta salad, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound dried penne pasta
- 1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
As for equipment, you’ll need a large pot for boiling the pasta, a colander, a large bowl for mixing the salad, and measuring cups and spoons.
How to Make
Making this strawberry balsamic pasta salad is as simple as it gets:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package directions. Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, strawberries, feta cheese, red onion, and basil.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, sugar, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss to coat.
- Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Serve chilled and enjoy!
Tips and Variations
Here are a few tips and variations to enhance your strawberry balsamic pasta salad experience:
- Use your favorite pasta shape. Penne is a classic choice, but you can also use bowtie, farfalle, or any other shape you prefer.
- If you don’t have fresh strawberries, you can use frozen strawberries. Just thaw them before using.
- Add other fruits or vegetables to the salad, such as blueberries, raspberries, or diced cucumber.
- For a vegetarian or vegan version, omit the feta cheese and use a plant-based cheese alternative.
- You can also add grilled chicken or shrimp to the salad for a protein boost.
No matter how you choose to customize it, this strawberry balsamic pasta salad is sure to become a staple in your summer cooking repertoire. Its vibrant flavors, refreshing taste, and ease of preparation make it the perfect dish for any occasion. So, gather your loved ones, savor the sweet and tangy notes of this delightful creation, and create memories that will last a lifetime.