Spaghetti Salad With Tomatoes, Feta, and Pesto Sauce (Can Be GF)
This is a loosely Mediterranean-inspired spaghetti salad. It is packed with flavor and just a little different due to the use of spaghetti instead of penne pasta. If you like, feel free to add in other veggies of your choice (celery, carrot, bell pepper, broccoli, olives). It can be gluten-free if you ensure that your pasta is gluten-free (corn, rice, quinoa, millet, soy) and your pesto sauce also. I hope you'll enjoy this salad as much as we do!
This is a loosely Mediterranean-inspired spaghetti salad. It is packed with flavor and just a little different due to the use of spaghetti instead of penne pasta. If you like, feel free to add in other veggies of your choice (celery, carrot, bell pepper, broccoli, olives). It can be gluten-free if you ensure that your pasta is gluten-free (corn, rice, quinoa, millet, soy) and your pesto sauce also. I hope you'll enjoy this salad as much as we do!
- fresh ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon oil (optional)
- 0.55 lb spaghetti (~1/2 lb, i used corn spaghetti so it
- 1/3 cup peas frozen
- 10 cherry tomatoes quartered
- 0.22 lb feta cheese
- 2 teaspoons pesto sauce
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary minced
- 1/8 teaspoon granulated garlic
- 1/2 tablespoon fresh chives minced
- Carbohydrate 15.0735310360768 g
- Cholesterol 22.2033465115 mg
- Fat 8.33557092510302 g
- Fiber 4.40170846934901 g
- Protein 6.96534783434879 g
- Saturated Fat 4.0083664419495 g
- Serving Size 1 1 -6 serving(s) (410g)
- Sodium 294.576080039237 mg
- Sugar 10.6718225667278 g
- Trans Fat 0.504454649837665 g
- Calories 153 calories
Step-by-step
- Cook spaghetti in salted water according to package directions. Ordinary spaghetti should take around 8-12 minutes.
- 2 minutes before the end of cooking time, add in the frozen peas.
- Drain and add to a big bowl.
- Stir in pesto sauce and oil if using.
- Sprinkle with herbs, garlic, pepper to taste.
- Toss to coat.
- Now add in the cherry tomatoes and feta cheese.
- Mix.
- Keep chilled until serving or eat right away.
- Variation: Sautee one large onion (chopped) in a little oil while cooking the pasta. Add to the salad with remaining ingredients.
A Light and Flavorful Mediterranean-Inspired Spaghetti Salad
As a busy working mom, finding quick and healthy meals is a constant priority. This spaghetti salad has become a staple in our household, not only for its ease of preparation but also for its vibrant flavors. It's a delicious departure from the usual pasta dishes, offering a lighter, fresher alternative perfect for a warm summer evening or a quick weeknight dinner. The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. I often adjust it based on what's fresh in the market or what my family is craving. Sometimes I'll add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein, other times I'll throw in some chopped bell peppers or cucumbers for added crunch. The possibilities are endless!
The combination of the slightly sweet cherry tomatoes, salty feta cheese, and fragrant pesto creates a symphony of flavors in your mouth. The fresh herbs – rosemary and chives – add a delightful aromatic touch, while the subtle garlic enhances the overall taste. I prefer using corn spaghetti to keep the dish gluten-free, as my youngest daughter has a sensitivity, but regular spaghetti works just as well. The peas add a pop of color and a welcome sweetness that complements the other ingredients beautifully. I often make a big batch of this salad on the weekend and have it throughout the week for lunches or side dishes, and it only gets better after a day in the fridge.
What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. It’s perfect for potlucks, picnics, or simply a light and satisfying meal. It can easily be scaled up or down depending on the number of people you’re feeding. It’s also incredibly forgiving – if you don’t have a specific herb or ingredient on hand, don’t worry! Just substitute with something similar, or leave it out entirely. The end result will still be a delicious and refreshing salad.
Beyond the taste, this recipe speaks to my busy lifestyle. I can whip it up in less than 30 minutes, from cooking the pasta to tossing in the final ingredients. It’s a perfect example of how you can create something both healthy and flavorful without spending hours in the kitchen. I encourage you to experiment with different variations – add your favorite vegetables, try different types of cheese, or even substitute the pesto with another flavorful sauce. The key is to have fun and let your creativity guide you. Enjoy!
Tips and Variations:
- Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a more substantial meal.
- Veggie Variety: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, cucumbers, olives, or artichoke hearts.
- Cheese Alternatives: Try goat cheese, mozzarella, or parmesan cheese instead of feta.
- Sauce Swap: Experiment with different dressings, such as lemon vinaigrette or a creamy Italian dressing.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Make it ahead: This salad is even better the next day, allowing the flavors to meld together.
This Mediterranean-inspired spaghetti salad is a testament to the power of simple, fresh ingredients. It's a recipe that's both delicious and versatile, easily adaptable to your own preferences and dietary needs. Give it a try, and I’m confident it will become a favorite in your kitchen too!
