Looking for a refreshing and nutritious dish that’s perfect for any occasion? Dive into the vibrant flavors of our Greek Tahini Pasta Salad! This delightful recipe combines the creamy richness of tahini with fresh vegetables and feta cheese, creating a mouthwatering salad that’s not only easy to make but also a feast for the eyes. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, packing a lunch for work, or simply craving a light meal, this pasta salad is sure to impress. Ready to tantalize your taste buds? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Greek
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta
- 1/2 cup tahini
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, diced
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and add a pinch of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Add the pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While pasta is cooking, prepare the tahini dressing. In a medium bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
- Drain the cooked pasta in a colander and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta quickly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, and diced red onion.
- Pour the tahini dressing over the pasta and vegetables, tossing gently to ensure even coating and distribution.
- Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the salad and gently fold to incorporate.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
- Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve chilled and garnish with additional fresh herbs like parsley or dill if desired.
Tips
- Perfect Pasta: To achieve the ideal al dente texture, be sure to follow the cooking time on the pasta package and stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Chill for Flavor: Allowing the salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes enhances the flavors, making it even more delicious when served.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add other fresh vegetables like bell peppers or olives to suit your taste preferences and add more color to your salad.
- Herb Boost: For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or even mint to your salad before serving.
- Tahini Variations: Experiment with different tahini brands or add a touch of garlic or cumin to the dressing for a unique twist.
- Make Ahead: This pasta salad can be made a day in advance, making it a great option for meal prep or gatherings. Just be sure to add the feta just before serving to keep it fresh!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 20mg
