I have a very strong love for pasta salads. I love that I can load them up with tons of veggies, or in this case even some fruit and get my pasta craving satisfied at the same time. The key to a good pasta salad to me is to have several textures, and flavors that come together with a tangy vinaigrette. I tend to make more pasta salads when the weather warms up for whatever reason and I love that I can keep them in the fridge and they are great for easy lunches, potlucks, or as a side dish to serve up with a grilled protein. This recipe for strawberry, feta, and herb pasta salad is going to become one of your favorite dishes to bring to any picnic, potluck, or simply just to serve at home!
I am a huge fan of fruit in my salads in general, which is why after we went strawberry picking I decided some berries would actually be delicious in a pasta salad. I love the slightly sweet flavor that the berries bring into this whole situation with the salty feta, crunchy cucumbers, al dente pasta, and my favorite tangy vinaigrette. I throw in tons of dill, mint, and basil too which really brightens up the whole situation and makes this pasta salad absolutely irresistible.
What if i don’t have strawberries on hand?
Feel free to substitute the strawberries for blueberries or even cherries!
What if I am gluten intolerant?
If you are gluten intolerant, simply swap the pasta for your favorite gluten free brand.
What if i don’t love mint?
If there is an herb that you don’t love here, just simply omit it and use the herbs that you do love. It will still be delicious.
Could I use a different cheese?
Yes! Mozzarella balls or even goat cheese would be amazing as a substitute to the feta, but I do love the saltiness that a good feta brings to the table.
How long will this salad last in the fridge?
I would recommend eating this pasta salad within the day if you have already added the vinaigrette and the berries. However, if you wait to toss the salad and add the berries, you can prep this up to a 3 days in advance and then simply add berries and toss with vinaigrette when ready to serve.
You might also be interested in trying out my Veggie Loaded Everything Bagel Pasta Salad!
Ingredients:
1/2 Lb. Penne Pasta (or pasta shape of choice)
1 1/2 Cups Sliced Strawberries
1 Cup Diced Cucumbers
1/4 Cup Thinly Sliced Red Onion
1 Cup Diced Feta
2 Tbsp. Fresh Dill
2 Tbsp. Fresh Mint
2 Tbsp. Fresh Basil
For the Vinaigrette-
1/4 Cup Red Wine Vinegar
1 Tbsp. Honey
1 Tbsp. Dijon Mustard
1 Tbsp. Olive Oil
1/2 Tsp. Salt
1/4 Tsp. Black Pepper
Directions:
Make the vinaigrette by combining vinegar, honey, mustard, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a bowl and whisking until well combined or emulsified.
Cook pasta until al dente, and then strain and rinse with water (I only rinse my pasta for pasta salads to prevent a gummy pasta salad). Place the pasta on a single layer on a baking sheet and cool completely.
In the meantime, chop herbs, feta, berries, and veggies and add to a bowl.
Add in cooled pasta into the bowl with the rest of the ingredients and then toss with half of the vinaigrette.
Add more salt and pepper and the rest of the vinaigrette if desired after tasting.
Note: Feel free to add some grilled chicken or even a rotisserie chicken into the salad as well for extra protein.
How perfect does this strawberry, feta, and herb pasta salad look for summer? I am telling you it is so delicious and EASY to make! It’s a must try recipe for the season!
