Looking for a dish that’s as refreshing as it is flavorful? Chimichurri Pasta Salad is the perfect recipe to satisfy your craving for something light, vibrant, and full of zesty goodness! This twist on a classic pasta salad brings together al dente pasta, fresh veggies, and a punchy chimichurri sauce made with parsley, garlic, vinegar, and olive oil. The result? A bright, herbaceous flavor that perfectly complements the richness of the pasta and the crunch of fresh ingredients. Whether you’re serving it at a summer BBQ or enjoying it as a weeknight side, this pasta salad is the ultimate balance of fresh and savory. Ready to enjoy a burst of flavor in every bite? Let’s dig in!
Why You’ll Love This Chimichurri Pasta Salad
This Chimichurri Pasta Salad is a game-changer for busy days. It’s incredibly easy to whip up, taking just about 25 minutes from start to finish. The fresh, zesty flavors will dance on your palate, making it a delightful dish for any occasion. Plus, it’s versatile! You can customize it with your favorite veggies or proteins, ensuring everyone at the table leaves happy and satisfied.
Ingredients for Chimichurri Pasta Salad
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this delightful Chimichurri Pasta Salad. Here’s what you’ll need:
Rotini pasta: This spiral-shaped pasta holds onto the dressing beautifully, making every bite flavorful.
Cherry tomatoes: Their sweetness adds a burst of color and flavor, perfect for summer.
Cucumber: Crisp and refreshing, cucumbers provide a nice crunch that balances the dish.
Red onion: Finely chopped, it adds a mild sharpness that enhances the overall taste.
Bell pepper: Choose your favorite color for a pop of sweetness and vibrant color.
Fresh parsley: This herb brings a bright, fresh flavor that complements the chimichurri dressing.
Fresh cilantro: Adds a unique, aromatic touch that pairs well with the other ingredients.
Olive oil: A key component of the dressing, it adds richness and helps meld the flavors.
Red wine vinegar: This tangy vinegar brightens the salad and balances the richness of the oil.
Fresh lemon juice: A splash of citrus elevates the flavors and adds a refreshing zing.
Garlic: Minced garlic infuses the dressing with a savory depth that’s hard to resist.
Dried oregano: This herb adds an earthy flavor that complements the fresh ingredients.
Red pepper flakes (optional): For those who enjoy a little heat, these flakes can spice things up!
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning, they enhance all the flavors in the salad.
For those looking to boost the protein content, consider adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas. Feel free to swap out vegetables based on what’s in season or what you have on hand. Avocado or spinach can be delightful additions too!
Exact quantities for each ingredient are available at the bottom of the article for easy printing.
How to Make Chimichurri Pasta Salad
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into making this delicious Chimichurri Pasta Salad. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a vibrant dish that’s sure to impress!
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling a pot of salted water. Once it’s bubbling, add the rotini pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Remember, you want it firm enough to hold up in the salad. After cooking, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water. This stops the cooking process and cools it down quickly.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
While the pasta is cooking, it’s time to chop your veggies. Dice the cucumber, halve the cherry tomatoes, and finely chop the red onion and bell pepper. The colors will make your salad pop! Fresh herbs like parsley and cilantro should be roughly chopped as well. This step is where you can get creative—feel free to add or swap in any seasonal vegetables you love!
Step 3: Make the Chimichurri Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, and dried oregano. If you like a little kick, toss in some red pepper flakes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This dressing is the heart of your Chimichurri Pasta Salad, so make sure it’s well mixed and flavorful!
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with the prepared vegetables and herbs. Pour the chimichurri dressing over the top. Gently toss everything together until the pasta and veggies are well coated. This is where the magic happens! Each bite will be bursting with flavor.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, you can enjoy it chilled or at room temperature. Either way, it’s a refreshing dish that’s perfect for any occasion!
Tips for Success
Always salt your pasta water; it enhances the flavor of the pasta.
Rinse the pasta thoroughly to stop cooking and cool it down quickly.
Chop vegetables uniformly for even texture and presentation.
Let the salad chill longer for deeper flavor; overnight is even better!
Adjust the dressing ingredients to suit your taste; don’t be afraid to experiment!
Equipment Needed
Large pot: For boiling pasta; a deep saucepan works too.
Colander: To drain the pasta; a slotted spoon can be a quick alternative.
Mixing bowl: A large bowl for combining ingredients; any big bowl will do.
Whisk: For mixing the dressing; a fork can work in a pinch.
Knife and cutting board: Essential for chopping veggies; a sturdy plate can substitute.
Variations
Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a heartier salad.
Cheese Lover: Crumble feta or sprinkle Parmesan cheese for a creamy touch.
Grain Swap: Use quinoa or farro instead of pasta for a gluten-free option.
Veggie Medley: Incorporate roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for added depth.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh basil or mint for a unique flavor twist.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.
Serve alongside crusty bread or garlic knots for a satisfying crunch.
Complement with a chilled white wine or sparkling water for a refreshing drink.
Garnish with extra herbs or lemon wedges for a beautiful presentation.
FAQs about Chimichurri Pasta Salad
Can I make Chimichurri Pasta Salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! This salad actually tastes better after sitting for a while. You can prepare it a day in advance and let the flavors meld in the fridge. Just give it a good toss before serving!
What can I substitute for rotini pasta?
If rotini isn’t your favorite, feel free to swap it out for any pasta shape you like. Penne, fusilli, or even whole wheat pasta work wonderfully in this Chimichurri Pasta Salad.
Is this salad gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version, simply use gluten-free pasta. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so you can enjoy this refreshing dish without worry!
How long does Chimichurri Pasta Salad last in the fridge?
This salad can last up to 3 days in the fridge. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh and flavorful.
Can I add more vegetables to the salad?
Definitely! This Chimichurri Pasta Salad is versatile. Feel free to add any seasonal vegetables you love, like bell peppers, spinach, or even roasted veggies for a different twist!
Final Thoughts
Creating this Chimichurri Pasta Salad is more than just a cooking task; it’s a joyful experience that brings a burst of color and flavor to your table. Each bite is a reminder of summer gatherings and shared laughter, making it a perfect dish for busy moms like us. The ease of preparation means you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying moments with loved ones. So, whether it’s a picnic, a potluck, or a simple family dinner, this salad is sure to be a hit. Trust me, it will become a cherished recipe in your home!
A refreshing and vibrant Chimichurri Pasta Salad, perfect for summer gatherings or as a light meal.
Ingredients
Scale
8 ounces rotini pasta
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup cucumber, diced
1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/2 cup bell pepper, diced
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, bell pepper, parsley, and cilantro.
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
Pour the chimichurri dressing over the pasta salad and toss until everything is well coated.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Serve chilled or at room temperature, and enjoy!
Notes
For added protein, mix in cooked chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas.
Feel free to swap out vegetables based on seasonal availability or personal preference, such as adding avocado or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.
