Nothing beats the simplicity and deliciousness of a quick-to-assemble pasta salad, especially when it only requires five ingredients. This recipe is not only straightforward but also incredibly versatile, perfect for those spontaneous summer gatherings or when you're in need of a healthy, effortless meal. Here's how to whip up a 5-Ingredient Pasta Salad that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 250g Fusilli pasta (or your preferred shape)
- 1 can of chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 100g feta cheese, crumbled
- Olive oil, salt, and pepper (seasoning essentials, not counted as ingredients)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. This ensures that your pasta will retain a good texture once added to the salad.
📌 Note: Make sure to reserve some pasta water, which can be used to slightly thin out the dressing if needed.
Step 2: Prepare the Salad Ingredients
While the pasta is cooking:
- Drain and rinse the chickpeas thoroughly.
- Dice the red bell pepper and cucumber to a uniform size.
- Crumble the feta cheese if not pre-crumbled.
Step 3: Combine Everything
Once the pasta is ready, drain it well and let it cool slightly. Transfer the pasta to a large salad bowl:
- Add in the chickpeas, diced red bell pepper, and cucumber.
- Crumble over the feta cheese, ensuring even distribution.
Step 4: Season and Toss
Drizzle a generous amount of olive oil over the salad. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss everything together until the ingredients are well coated with the dressing.
Step 5: Serve or Chill
You can serve this pasta salad immediately at room temperature, or cover and refrigerate it for a few hours to allow the flavors to meld together.
Why This Recipe Works
This pasta salad recipe is excellent for a variety of reasons:
- Simplicity: Only five key ingredients, making it easy to prepare.
- Flexibility: You can adapt the ingredients to your taste or what you have on hand.
- Health: With the inclusion of chickpeas for protein and vegetables for vitamins, it’s a balanced meal.
- Flavor: The simple dressing of olive oil, salt, and pepper highlights the natural flavors of the ingredients.
By following these steps, you're not only creating a nutritious and delicious dish but also practicing the art of using minimalistic ingredients to produce something rich and satisfying. Whether it's for a picnic, a family dinner, or a quick lunch, this pasta salad is a go-to option that promises to delight.
Can I use different pasta shapes?
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Absolutely, feel free to use any pasta shape you like. Bowtie, penne, or even small shells work well, adjusting for cooking time if necessary.
What can I substitute for feta cheese?
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If you prefer not to use feta, goat cheese or even small pieces of mozzarella would be a great alternative.
Is this salad suitable for vegans?
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To make this recipe vegan, skip the feta cheese or replace it with a vegan cheese or simply leave it out for a delicious vegan-friendly salad.
