Description
This Tasty Mediterranean Pasta Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish inspired by Sam’s Club. Featuring a zesty balsamic and basil dressing, it combines hearty pasta with fresh kale, tangy feta, Parmesan cheese, and sweet cherry tomatoes for a wholesome and refreshing salad perfect for a quick lunch or side dish.
Ingredients
Scale
Dressing
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp basil paste
- 4 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tbsp garlic (minced)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Salad
- 3 cups cooked pasta (such as rotini or penne)
- 2 cups kale, chopped
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
Instructions
- Prepare the pasta: Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta.
- Make the dressing: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, basil paste, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper until well combined and emulsified.
- Combine salad ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta, chopped kale, halved tomatoes, crumbled feta, and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Toss the salad: Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss thoroughly to ensure everything is evenly coated with the flavorful dressing.
- Chill and serve: For best flavor, refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
- Use pasta shapes that hold dressing well, like rotini or penne.
- Prep the pasta and dressing ahead to save time before assembling.
- Substitute kale with spinach or mixed greens if preferred.
- Add olives or cucumbers for extra Mediterranean flair.
- Salad keeps well for up to 2 days refrigerated.
