Ditalini pasta salad is a refreshing and colorful dish that’s not only satisfying but also quick and easy to prepare. This delightful salad showcases the small, ridged pasta known as ditalini, which perfectly captures the vibrant flavors of fresh vegetables and a light dressing. Ideal for gatherings, picnics, or simply as a nutritious side dish, this pasta salad brings together a medley of textures and tastes that will excite your palate.

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: 230
Protein: 7g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fat: 10g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 300mg

Why Make This Ditalini Pasta Salad

Ditalini pasta salad is an excellent choice for many reasons. It’s a breeze to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights or large gatherings. The combination of fresh vegetables and feta cheese packs a nutritious punch, while the olive oil and red wine vinegar dressing adds a bright and tangy flavor. Plus, it’s easily customizable, allowing you to use whatever seasonal veggies you have on hand. This pasta salad is a guaranteed hit for everyone, making it a go-to dish for any occasion.

How to Make Ditalini Pasta Salad

There’s nothing daunting about making Ditalini pasta salad! Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll end up with a delicious dish everyone will love.

Ingredients:

1 cup ditalini pasta
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup cucumber, diced
1/4 cup red onion, diced
1/2 cup bell pepper, diced
1/4 cup olives, sliced
1/3 cup feta cheese, crumbled
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish

Directions:

Step 1: Cooking the Pasta

Cook the ditalini pasta according to package instructions. Once cooked, drain the pasta and let it cool completely.
Step 2: Mixing the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, bell pepper, olives, and feta cheese. Stir well to mix all the ingredients together.
Step 3: Preparing the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper. This dressing will enhance the flavors of the salad without overpowering them.
Step 4: Combining Everything

Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss everything gently to combine. Ensure that all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
Step 5: Garnishing

Garnish with fresh basil before serving to add a pop of color and flavor.

How to Serve Ditalini Pasta Salad

Ditalini pasta salad can be served chilled or at room temperature, making it versatile for any occasion. Pair it with grilled chicken, burgers, or a freshly baked baguette for a complete meal. It also works great as a side dish for picnics or barbecues.

How to Store Ditalini Pasta Salad

To store ditalini pasta salad, keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3 days. If you want to maintain the texture of the vegetables, consider adding the dressing just before serving to prevent sogginess.

Expert Tips for Perfect Ditalini Pasta Salad

Cook the pasta until it is al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy.
Feel free to include other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots based on your preference.
For a protein boost, add cooked chicken, tuna, or chickpeas.
Adjust the seasoning according to your taste; a bit of lemon juice can add extra brightness.

Delicious Variations

Mediterranean Twist: Add artichoke hearts, capers, and sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean flair.
Colorful Veggies: Use a variety of colored bell peppers for a more vibrant dish.
Herbaceous Spin: Mix in fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or cilantro for added freshness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! This salad tastes even better after it has had some time to sit, allowing the flavors to meld. Just be sure to store it in the refrigerator.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While ditalini is ideal, feel free to substitute it with any small pasta like elbow macaroni or orzo.
How can I make it vegan?
To make this dish vegan, simply omit the feta cheese or use a plant-based cheese alternative.
What other dressings can I use?
You can try using balsamic vinaigrette, lemon vinaigrette, or any dressing of your choice as an alternative to give a different flavor profile.
Is this pasta salad gluten-free?
If you use gluten-free pasta, this dish can easily be made gluten-free.

Conclusion

Ditalini pasta salad is a delightful, fresh dish that’s perfect for any gathering or a busy weeknight meal. With its bright colors and flavors, it’s sure to satisfy. The great news is that you can customize it to suit your taste preferences easily. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy this tasty salad that’s both nutritious and delicious. Happy cooking!