Layered Spring Pasta Salad – A Fresh and Colorful Delight for Any Occasion!
Looking for a vibrant and refreshing salad that’s perfect for picnics, potlucks, or just a light, delicious meal? This Layered Spring Pasta Salad is filled with fresh veggies, creamy dressing, and tender pasta, all coming together in a beautiful, easy-to-make dish!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups rotini or fusilli pasta (uncooked)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup bell peppers (red, yellow, or orange), diced
- 1/2 cup sweet corn (fresh or frozen)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup Italian dressing (or dressing of choice)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta:
- Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool it down. Set aside.
- Prepare the Veggies:
- While the pasta cools, prepare the veggies by slicing the cherry tomatoes, dicing the cucumber and bell peppers, and slicing the red onion.
- Layer the Salad:
- In a large glass bowl or serving dish, start by layering the pasta at the bottom.
- Next, layer the tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, and red onions over the pasta.
- Add the Corn & Cheese:
- Sprinkle the sweet corn evenly over the veggies, followed by a generous layer of mozzarella and feta cheese.
- Top with Fresh Herbs:
- Garnish with chopped basil and parsley for a burst of freshness and color.
- Dress the Salad:
- Drizzle the Italian dressing over the top. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then toss gently to combine.
- Chill and Serve:
- For best results, refrigerate the salad for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve cold and enjoy!
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
| Calories | 250 |
| Protein | 7g |
| Carbs | 28g |
| Fat | 12g |
| Sodium | 400mg |
Printable Recipe Summary:
| Layered Spring Pasta Salad | |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 10 minutes |
| Total Time | 25 minutes |
| Servings | 6 servings |
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! Feel free to swap in any pasta you prefer, such as penne, farfalle, or macaroni.
Q: Can I make the salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! This pasta salad stores well in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just toss it gently before serving.
Q: Can I make this salad dairy-free?
Yes! Simply omit the mozzarella and feta, and replace the dressing with a dairy-free option, like balsamic vinaigrette.
Q: Can I add protein to this salad?
Sure! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas would make a great addition to turn this into a hearty meal.
This Layered Spring Pasta Salad is the perfect combination of fresh, crunchy vegetables and creamy cheese, all coated in a flavorful dressing. It’s a great side dish or a main for a light meal, and it’s sure to brighten up your plate and your taste buds!
