If you’re anything like me, summer days are all about easy meals that satisfy without a lot of fuss. I love serving feta pesto pasta alongside grilled chicken or shrimp skewers. Add a side of garlic bread, and you’ve got a complete meal that feels special without the time commitment. This dish is perfectly at home on any picnic or family gathering, and trust me, it disappears fast!
Feta pesto pasta is the ultimate dish for anyone who appreciates vibrant flavors combined with ease of preparation. It’s one of those recipes that transforms simple ingredients into something else entirely. Whether you whip it up for a summer cookout or make it ahead for lunch during a busy week, this pasta is versatile and deserves a spot in your recipe rotation.
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What is feta pesto pasta?
At its core, feta pesto pasta is a delightful combination of al dente pasta spirals, creamy feta cheese, and luscious pesto sauce. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. You get the rich flavors of basil and pine nuts from the pesto, balanced with the salty tang of crumbled feta. It’s an easy dish that can be enjoyed warm or cold, making it a go-to for any occasion.
Why This Recipe Works?
What makes this feta pesto pasta work so well is the way the ingredients meld together. The creamy mayonnaise helps to create a luscious coating for the pasta, while the feta cheese adds a salty punch that enhances the flavor of the pesto. The cherry tomatoes bring freshness and a burst of sweetness. And let’s not forget the spice from the cracked black pepper—it ties everything together beautifully.
Ingredients You’ll Need To Make This Feta Pesto Pasta
To make this vibrant pasta dish, here are the ingredients you’ll want to gather:
– 400 grams Pasta Spirals (any type you prefer, I recommend fusilli for better sauce clinging)
– 100 grams of Basil & Pine Nut Pesto (or your favorite variety)
– 100 grams of Traditional Mayonnaise (helps create creaminess)
– 30 grams of Grated Cheese (I recommend Parmesan for a nutty flavor)
– 30 grams of Crumbled Danish Feta (or any feta you enjoy)
– 250 grams of Cherry Tomatoes, halved (adds sweetness and color)
– 1/2 teaspoon of Cracked Black Pepper (for a gentle kick)
– Optional: A handful of fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish and fresh flavor)
– Optional: A squeeze of lemon juice (to brighten the dish)
How to Make Feta Pesto Pasta?
Let’s dive into the steps of making this pasta. It’s as easy as boiling, mixing, and serving! Each step will guide you to ensure that your dish turns out perfect every time.
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large saucepan filled with salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta spirals and cook them according to the package directions, usually about 8 minutes for al dente. Once they’re cooked, drain them well in a colander and rinse under cold running water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool and let the flavors develop.
Step 2: Mix the Dressing
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the pesto, mayonnaise, grated cheese, and cracked black pepper. Use a whisk or a fork to mix until everything is well-blended. This creamy dressing is where the magic happens because it will bring all the flavors together.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, add the drained pasta spirals. Pour the creamy pesto mixture over the pasta and gently fold it in using a large wooden spoon. Next, add the halved cherry tomatoes. Don’t forget to crumble half of the feta cheese into the mix. Carefully combine all the ingredients—you want everything coated nicely with the dressing.
Step 4: Final Touches
Once everything is mixed, crumble the remaining feta over the top for a beautiful presentation. You can serve this pasta right away, or if you prefer it chilled, pop it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve. This dish keeps well in an airtight container for up to three days in the refrigerator.
Step 5: Enjoy!
Dig in! Serve it up alongside your favorite proteins or enjoy it as a stand-alone dish. This pasta salad is sure to impress.
Tips
– Pasta Choice: For added texture, try using whole wheat or gluten-free pasta.
– Customization: Feel free to toss in your favorite veggies such as bell peppers or spinach for extra crunch and nutrition.
– Make it Vegan: Substitute the mayonnaise with a vegan alternative and use cashew cheese for the feta.
– Extra Flavor: Add a dash of hot sauce or chili flakes for some heat.
– Garnish Smart: Fresh herbs like parsley or basil make beautiful and tasty garnishes.
How to Store the Leftovers?
To keep your feta pesto pasta fresh, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container. It will stay delicious in the fridge for up to three days. Just give it a gentle stir before serving to reinvigorate the flavors.
Nutrition Information
This dish provides a well-rounded meal packed with carbohydrates from the pasta, healthy fats from the pesto and feta, and vitamins from the tomatoes. Each serving is roughly 400 calories, but this can vary based on specific ingredient brands and portions.
What are some recommended side dishes for feta pesto pasta?
– Garlic Bread:Perfectly complements the creamy pasta with garlic-infused carbs.
– Grilled Vegetables:A colorful, healthy side that adds a great smoky flavor.
– Caprese Salad:Fresh and bright, balancing the richness of the pasta.
– Roasted Chickpeas:For added crunch and protein, these deliver a satisfying contrast.
– Caesar Salad:A classic choice that adds some crunch and a tangy dressing to the meal.
If the items are not available in your pantry, what are some substitute options for the ingredients?
– Pasta Spirals:Substitute with any pasta shape you have on hand, such as penne or rotini.
– Basil & Pine Nut Pesto:Homemade pesto can work well, or try sun-dried tomato pesto for a twist.
– Traditional Mayonnaise:Greek yogurt can be a healthier alternative that adds protein.
– Danish Feta:Goat cheese or blue cheese are tasty substitutes that will offer a unique flavor.
– Cherry Tomatoes:Roma or grape tomatoes are fine substitutes, or you can use sun-dried tomatoes for a different flavor.
Feta Pesto Pasta
Equipment
- Large saucepan
- Mixing bowls
- wooden spoon
- colander
Ingredients
- To make this vibrant pasta dish here are the ingredients you’ll want to gather:
- – 400 grams Pasta Spirals any type you prefer, I recommend fusilli for better sauce clinging
- – 100 grams of Basil & Pine Nut Pesto or your favorite variety
- – 100 grams of Traditional Mayonnaise helps create creaminess
- – 30 grams of Grated Cheese I recommend Parmesan for a nutty flavor
- – 30 grams of Crumbled Danish Feta or any feta you enjoy
- – 250 grams of Cherry Tomatoes halved (adds sweetness and color)
- – 1/2 teaspoon of Cracked Black Pepper for a gentle kick
- – Optional: A handful of fresh basil leaves chopped (for garnish and fresh flavor)
- – Optional: A squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the dish
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Start by bringing a large saucepan filled with salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta spirals and cook them according to the package directions, usually about 8 minutes for al dente. Once they’re cooked, drain them well in a colander and rinse under cold running water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool and let the flavors develop.
Step 2: Mix the Dressing
- In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the pesto, mayonnaise, grated cheese, and cracked black pepper. Use a whisk or a fork to mix until everything is well-blended. This creamy dressing is where the magic happens because it will bring all the flavors together.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, add the drained pasta spirals. Pour the creamy pesto mixture over the pasta and gently fold it in using a large wooden spoon. Next, add the halved cherry tomatoes. Don’t forget to crumble half of the feta cheese into the mix. Carefully combine all the ingredients—you want everything coated nicely with the dressing.
Step 4: Final Touches
- Once everything is mixed, crumble the remaining feta over the top for a beautiful presentation. You can serve this pasta right away, or if you prefer it chilled, pop it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve. This dish keeps well in an airtight container for up to three days in the refrigerator.
Step 5: Enjoy!
- Dig in! Serve it up alongside your favorite proteins or enjoy it as a stand-alone dish. This pasta salad is sure to impress.
Notes
Nutrition
FAQs
1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Feta pesto pasta can be made a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and give it a good stir before serving.
2. Is feta pesto pasta gluten-free?
It can be! Just use your favorite gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version without sacrificing flavor.
3. Can I add protein to this dish?
Definitely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or canned chickpeas would be excellent, hearty additions that will make it a complete meal.
4. How can I make this a one-pot dish?
You can prepare the pasta and the pesto sauce together in one pot. Cook the pasta, then add your sauce and any veggies or proteins along with it to simplify washing up!
5. What can I do with leftover feta pesto pasta?
It makes a great addition to a lunchbox and can be eaten cold or reheated. You can also use it as a filling for stuffed bell peppers!
Conclusion
Feta pesto pasta is a simple, delightful dish that proves comfort food can also be fresh and wholesome. With just a handful of ingredients and a few steps, you can prepare a meal that everyone will love. So the next time you’re looking for something quick to whip up, or perhaps a side for a summer barbecue, remember this recipe! It’s versatile, easy to make, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Enjoy your cooking adventures!