Nagi’s Big, Easy Pasta Salad Recipe

Introduction

This Big, Easy Pasta Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish perfect for gatherings or a satisfying lunch. With soft bow tie pasta tossed in a tangy dressing and loaded with fresh vegetables, olives, and feta, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s simple to prepare.

Ingredients

• 500g (1 lb) bow tie pasta (farfalle) or other short/medium pasta
• 2 cucumbers, halved lengthways and finely sliced (~17cm/7″ long, sliced 2mm / 1/16″)
• 3 cups (500g) cherry or grape tomatoes, halved (or 4 regular tomatoes, chopped)
• 1/3 cup roughly chopped Kalamata olives (use 3/4 cup whole pitted or 1/2 cup sliced, then chop)
• 200g (7oz) Greek feta, cut into 6mm (1/4″) batons
• 1 packed cup basil leaves, torn by hand
• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1/3 cup apple cider vinegar
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tsp Dijon mustard (optional)
• 2 tsp honey (or substitute maple syrup or 1 tsp sugar)
• 1 1/2 tsp Italian herbs mix
• 3/4 tsp cooking salt or kosher salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

1. Step 1: Prepare the dressing by combining olive oil, apple cider vinegar, garlic, Dijon mustard, honey, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper in a large jar. Shake well until the mixture is sharp and well blended.
2. Step 2: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the bow tie pasta until very soft—about 2 to 3 minutes longer than the package instructions—then drain thoroughly, shaking off excess water.
3. Step 3: Transfer the drained pasta to a large bowl. Pour about two-thirds of the dressing over the pasta and toss well. Let the pasta sit for around 40 minutes to soak up the flavors as it cools.
4. Step 4: Add the halved tomatoes, sliced cucumbers, chopped olives, and feta to the pasta. Pour the remaining dressing over the salad and toss everything together gently.
5. Step 5: Tear the basil leaves by hand and add them to the salad. Toss again lightly to combine.
6. Step 6: Transfer the salad to a large serving bowl and serve immediately. Enjoy this fresh and flavorful pasta salad!

Tips & Variations

• Use a mandolin for evenly thin cucumber slices for the best texture.
• Substitute basil with fresh mint or parsley for a different herbal note.
• If you prefer a milder dressing, reduce the vinegar slightly or add more honey.
• To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta instead of regular pasta.

Storage

Store the pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors will deepen over time, but the basil may wilt, so consider adding fresh basil just before serving if preparing in advance. Reheat is not recommended; serve chilled or at room temperature.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes, short or medium pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or rotini work well in this salad.

Is it okay to omit the Dijon mustard?

Absolutely. Dijon mustard adds a slight tang and depth but can be left out if you prefer a simpler dressing.