Looking for a delicious and nutritious dish that will impress your guests and tantalize your taste buds? Dive into the vibrant world of Mediterranean cuisine with our Whole Wheat Pasta Salad with Walnuts and Feta Cheese! This easy-to-make recipe combines the hearty goodness of whole wheat pasta with the crunchy texture of toasted walnuts and the creamy richness of feta cheese, all brought together with a zesty lemon dressing. Perfect for a light lunch, a side dish at your next gathering, or a refreshing meal prep option, this salad is not just a feast for the eyes but also a powerhouse of flavor and nutrition. Ready to elevate your culinary skills? Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
- 8 oz whole wheat pasta
- 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
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 whole wheat pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes, until the pasta is al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the pasta is cooking, toast the chopped walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Drain the cooked pasta in a colander and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta down.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
- Add the cooled pasta to the bowl with the dressing and toss to coat evenly.
- Gently fold in the halved cherry tomatoes, toasted walnuts, and crumbled feta cheese.
- Cover and refrigerate for 15-20 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
- Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Tips
- Cook Pasta Perfectly: To achieve the ideal al dente texture, make sure to follow the package instructions carefully and taste the pasta a minute or two before the suggested cooking time is up.
- Toast the Walnuts: Toasting the walnuts enhances their flavor and adds a delightful crunch. Keep a close eye on them as they can burn quickly; a few minutes over medium heat is all it takes!
- Chill for Flavor: Allowing the pasta salad to chill in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes before serving helps the flavors meld beautifully, making each bite even more delicious.
- Customize Your Ingredients: Feel free to add other ingredients like bell peppers, olives, or fresh herbs such as basil or parsley to personalize your salad and enhance its Mediterranean flair.
- Adjust the Dressing: Taste the dressing before adding it to the pasta, and adjust the seasoning with more lemon juice, salt, or pepper according to your preference.
- Serve at Room Temperature: While this salad is delightful when chilled, it can also be served at room temperature, making it versatile for any occasion.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 25mg
