11 zesty pasta salads

 

11 zesty pasta salads

Classic Italian Antipasto Pasta Salad

Classic Italian Antipasto Pasta Salad

This vibrant salad is a staple of Italian-American gatherings, often serving as the centerpiece for summer picnics and family reunions. Its roots trace back to the traditional antipasto platters of Italy, which feature an assortment of cured meats, artisanal cheeses, and marinated vegetables intended to stimulate the appetite before a meal. By combining these elements with rotini pasta, the salad becomes a robust, standalone dish that balances salty, savory, and tangy notes. The key to a successful antipasto salad lies in the quality of the ingredients. Using high-grade Genoa salami and sharp provolone provides a depth of flavor that offsets the acidity of the red wine vinegar. The corkscrew shape of the rotini is specifically chosen to trap the vinaigrette in its ridges, ensuring every bite is infused with the herbaceous dressing.

Ingredients

  • 16 ounces rotini pasta
  • 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/3 cup red wine vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 8 ounces Genoa salami, cubed
  • 8 ounces provolone cheese, cubed
  • 1 cup black olives, sliced
  • 1/2 cup sliced pepperoncini
  • 1 large red bell pepper, diced
  • 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Directions

  1. 1

    1. Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil and season it generously with kosher salt until it tastes like the sea; this is the only chance to season the pasta itself.

  2. 2

    2. Add the rotini to the water and cook according to the package instructions until it reaches the 'al dente' stage, which means it should be tender but still offer a slight resistance when bitten.

  3. 3

    3. While the pasta cooks, prepare the dressing in a small bowl by whisking together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, and garlic powder until the mixture is fully emulsified.

  4. 4

    4. Drain the pasta in a colander and immediately rinse it under cold running water to stop the cooking process and wash away excess starch, which prevents the pasta from sticking together.

  5. 5

    5. In a very large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cubed salami, provolone cheese, sliced olives, pepperoncini, and diced red bell pepper.

  6. 6

    6. Pour the prepared dressing over the mixture and use large tongs to toss the ingredients thoroughly, ensuring an even distribution of the meat, cheese, and vegetables.

  7. 7

    7. Sprinkle the freshly chopped parsley over the top and give it one final gentle toss before covering the bowl with plastic wrap.

  8. 8

    8. For the best flavor, refrigerate the salad for at least two hours or overnight to allow the pasta to absorb the vinaigrette and for the various flavors to meld together.

Zesty Greek Orzo Salad with Lemon and Feta

Zesty Greek Orzo Salad with Lemon and Feta

Orzo, the rice-shaped pasta widely used throughout the Mediterranean, serves as the perfect base for this refreshing and zesty salad. This dish is inspired by the bright, clean flavors of a traditional Horiatiki (Greek Village Salad), emphasizing fresh cucumbers, ripe tomatoes, and the briny tang of Kalamata olives. The use of orzo creates a more delicate texture compared to larger pasta shapes, allowing the lemon-herb vinaigrette to coat every grain evenly. This salad is not only a nutritional powerhouse but also a visual delight, showcasing the colors of the Greek flag and the Mediterranean sun. It is an ideal accompaniment to grilled lamb or chicken, but it also stands alone as a light and healthy lunch option that improves as the ingredients marinate.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup orzo pasta
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 English cucumber, diced
  • 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/2 cup pitted Kalamata olives

Directions

  1. 1

    1. Fill a medium saucepan with water, add a pinch of salt, and bring to a boil; cook the orzo for about 8 to 10 minutes until tender, then drain and rinse under cold water.

  2. 2

    2. While the orzo is boiling, prepare the lemon vinaigrette by combining the lemon juice, olive oil, and minced garlic in a jar and shaking vigorously until the oil and acid have combined into a smooth liquid.

  3. 3

    3. Dice the English cucumber into small, uniform pieces, ensuring you leave the skin on for extra crunch and nutritional value.

  4. 4

    4. Slice the cherry tomatoes in half and finely dice the red onion; if the onion flavor is too sharp, soak the pieces in cold water for five minutes then drain to mellow them.

  5. 5

    5. In a large serving bowl, combine the chilled orzo with the cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, and Kalamata olives.

  6. 6

    6. Drizzle the prepared vinaigrette over the salad and toss with a silicone spatula to prevent the orzo from breaking apart.

  7. 7

    7. Gently fold in the crumbled feta cheese and chopped parsley; be careful not to over-mix, as you want the feta to remain in distinct chunks rather than turning the salad cloudy.

  8. 8

    8. Season with fresh cracked black pepper and a small amount of salt, keeping in mind that the feta and olives are naturally salty.

Spicy Tex-Mex Macaroni Salad

Spicy Tex-Mex Macaroni Salad

This recipe offers a bold twist on the classic American macaroni salad, infusing it with the heat and vibrancy of Southwestern cuisine. By replacing the traditional heavy mayonnaise base with a lighter, lime-infused dressing, the dish gains a zesty profile that pairs perfectly with outdoor barbecue. The inclusion of black beans and corn adds a satisfying texture and a boost of plant-based protein, making it more substantial than a typical side dish. The heat is derived from fresh jalapeños and a dash of chili powder, which provides a smoky undertone that complements the sweetness of the corn. This salad is a celebration of fusion cooking, bringing together the comfort of pasta with the adventurous spices of the Texas and Mexico border.

Ingredients

  • 16 ounces elbow macaroni
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed
  • 1 cup frozen corn, thawed
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 fresh jalapeño, seeded and minced

Directions

  1. 1

    1. Cook the elbow macaroni in a large pot of boiling salted water until just tender; it is important not to overcook the macaroni, as it will soften further once the dressing is applied.

  2. 2

    2. Drain the pasta and let it cool completely in a large bowl to ensure the mayonnaise-based dressing doesn't melt and become oily upon contact.

  3. 3

    3. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chili powder, and cumin to create a creamy, spicy base.

  4. 4

    4. Prepare the fresh ingredients by rinsing the black beans thoroughly to remove the canning liquid and finely mincing the jalapeño; remember to wash your hands after handling the pepper.

  5. 5

    5. Add the black beans, corn, diced bell pepper, and minced jalapeño to the bowl with the cooled macaroni.

  6. 6

    6. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and stir with a large spoon until every piece of macaroni is evenly coated in the creamy sauce.

  7. 7

    7. Fold in the chopped cilantro, which adds a refreshing herbal note that cuts through the spice and the creaminess of the dressing.

  8. 8

    8. Allow the salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour before serving to let the spicy flavors penetrate the pasta.

Mediterranean Pearl Couscous with Sun-dried Tomatoes

Mediterranean Pearl Couscous with Sun-dried Tomatoes

Pearl couscous, also known as Israeli couscous, is a toasted pasta shaped into small spheres that offer a delightful, chewy texture quite different from traditional semolina pasta. In this recipe, the pearls are paired with the intense, concentrated flavor of sun-dried tomatoes and the earthy bitterness of baby spinach. This dish is inspired by the coastal flavors of the Levant, where grains and pasta are often served with preserved vegetables and citrus. The sun-dried tomatoes provide a 'umami' depth that is further enhanced by a balsamic reduction, creating a sophisticated flavor profile. It is a highly adaptable dish that works equally well served warm as a side dish or cold as a refreshing salad for a midday meal.

Ingredients

  • 1.5 cups pearl couscous
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, chopped
  • 2 cups fresh baby spinach
  • 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, sliced

Directions

  1. 1

    1. In a medium pot, bring the vegetable broth to a boil; adding broth instead of water infuses the couscous with a deeper savory flavor from the start.

  2. 2

    2. Stir in the pearl couscous, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for about 10 minutes or until the liquid is fully absorbed and the pearls are tender.

  3. 3

    3. While the couscous is cooking, chop the sun-dried tomatoes into thin strips and toast the pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat until they are golden and fragrant.

  4. 4

    4. Once the couscous is finished, remove the pot from the heat and immediately stir in the fresh baby spinach; the residual heat from the pasta will wilt the spinach perfectly without overcooking it.

  5. 5

    5. Transfer the couscous and spinach mixture to a large bowl and add the sun-dried tomatoes and toasted pine nuts.

  6. 6

    6. Whisk the balsamic vinegar and olive oil together in a small ramekin and pour the mixture over the warm couscous, stirring well to ensure even distribution.

  7. 7

    7. Allow the mixture to cool slightly before folding in the grated parmesan cheese and fresh basil; adding cheese to a hot mixture can cause it to clump.

  8. 8

    8. Serve at room temperature or chilled, garnished with extra basil leaves for a fresh aromatic presentation.

Zesty Lemon Basil Bow Tie Salad

Zesty Lemon Basil Bow Tie Salad

The cheerful shape of farfalle, or 'bow tie' pasta, makes this salad a favorite for festive occasions and garden parties. This recipe focuses on the aromatic synergy between fresh basil and bright citrus, creating a flavor profile that is both uplifting and sophisticated. The 'zest' comes from the use of both lemon juice and finely grated lemon peel, which contains the essential oils that provide a more intense citrus flavor than the juice alone. This salad is a masterclass in simplicity, relying on the quality of a few key ingredients to create a harmonious dish. It is particularly effective as a palate cleanser during a multi-course meal or as a light accompaniment to grilled seafood.

Ingredients

  • 16 ounces farfalle pasta
  • 1/3 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 cups fresh basil leaves
  • 1/2 cup pine nuts, toasted
  • 1/2 cup shredded parmesan cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic, crushed
  • 1/2 teaspoon sea salt

Directions

  1. 1

    1. Cook the farfalle in a large pot of salted water until al dente; the 'bow tie' shape has a thicker center, so ensure the middle part is cooked through while the wings remain firm.

  2. 2

    2. Drain the pasta and spread it out on a large baking sheet to cool quickly; this prevents the pasta from continuing to cook in its own steam.

  3. 3

    3. Create the lemon-basil oil by placing the basil leaves, garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and olive oil in a food processor or blender.

  4. 4

    4. Pulse the processor until the basil is finely chopped and the dressing has a vibrant green color, but do not over-process into a complete puree; you want small bits of basil visible.

  5. 5

    5. Transfer the cooled pasta to a large bowl and pour the lemon-basil oil over it, tossing gently so the wings of the farfalle don't break.

  6. 6

    6. Add the toasted pine nuts and shredded parmesan cheese, which provide a nutty crunch and a salty finish to the salad.

  7. 7

    7. If the salad seems a bit dry after mixing, add a small splash of olive oil to loosen the pasta and enhance the sheen.

  8. 8

    8. Let the salad sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving to allow the lemon and basil flavors to fully permeate the pasta surface.

Creamy Dill and Cucumber Rotini

Creamy Dill and Cucumber Rotini

Drawing inspiration from Northern European and Scandinavian flavors, this pasta salad emphasizes the cooling properties of fresh dill and crisp cucumbers. Unlike many cream-based salads that can feel heavy, this version uses a base of Greek yogurt mixed with a small amount of sour cream to provide a tangy, light, and healthy alternative. The ridges of the rotini are perfect for holding the creamy dill sauce, ensuring that the flavor is evenly distributed in every mouthful. This dish is an excellent choice for hot summer days, as the water-rich cucumbers and the cooling herb profile provide a refreshing contrast to the heat. It is a classic example of how a few garden-fresh ingredients can transform a simple bowl of pasta into a gourmet experience.

Ingredients

  • 16 ounces rotini pasta
  • 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 3 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped
  • 1 large English cucumber, quartered and sliced
  • 1/2 red onion, minced
  • 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Directions

  1. 1

    1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil, salt it well, and cook the rotini until it is tender; drain it and rinse under cold water until it is no longer warm to the touch.

  2. 2

    2. Prepare the cucumber by slicing it into quarters lengthwise and then cutting it into thin slices; for the best texture, remove the seeds from the center of the cucumber before slicing to prevent the salad from becoming watery.

  3. 3

    3. In a medium bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, sour cream, white wine vinegar, and honey; the honey acts as a balancing agent for the acidity of the yogurt and vinegar.

  4. 4

    4. Stir in the finely chopped fresh dill and the minced red onion into the yogurt mixture, creating a thick and fragrant dressing.

  5. 5

    5. Combine the cooled pasta and the sliced cucumbers in a large mixing bowl, then pour the creamy dill dressing over the top.

  6. 6

    6. Use a large rubber spatula to fold the dressing into the pasta gently, ensuring that every spiral of the rotini is coated.

  7. 7

    7. Season with a generous amount of freshly cracked black pepper and a pinch of salt to taste.

  8. 8

    8. Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour; the yogurt-based dressing will thicken slightly as it chills, creating a luxurious and velvety coating on the pasta.

Pesto Genovese Penne Salad

Pesto Genovese Penne Salad

This recipe pays homage to the coastal city of Genoa, the birthplace of pesto. While pesto is traditionally served warm, it translates beautifully into a zesty cold pasta salad when combined with the right ingredients. The key is to use a high-quality, oil-based pesto that remains fluid when chilled. Penne pasta is the ideal vessel for this green sauce, as the hollow centers catch the pesto, providing a burst of basil and garlic flavor with every bite. To add more texture and 'zest', we incorporate fresh baby heirloom tomatoes and small balls of fresh mozzarella, known as bocconcini. This salad is a celebration of the Italian countryside, offering a rustic yet refined profile that is perfect for any gathering.

Ingredients

  • 16 ounces penne rigate pasta
  • 1 cup fresh basil pesto
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 8 ounces bocconcini (small mozzarella balls)
  • 1/4 cup toasted walnuts, crushed
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Directions

  1. 1

    1. Boil the penne in salted water until al dente, ensuring the pasta retains a firm bite; drain and toss with one tablespoon of olive oil to prevent sticking while it cools.

  2. 2

    2. If you are making the pesto from scratch, use a mortar and pestle for the most authentic texture, or a food processor for speed, combining basil, garlic, pine nuts, parmesan, and olive oil.

  3. 3

    3. Place the cooled penne in a large mixing bowl and add the cup of pesto, stirring thoroughly until all the pasta is vibrant green.

  4. 4

    4. Halve the cherry tomatoes and drain the mozzarella balls from their liquid; add both to the pasta bowl.

  5. 5

    5. Gently toss the ingredients together so as not to bruise the tomatoes or break the mozzarella.

  6. 6

    6. Sprinkle the crushed toasted walnuts over the top to provide an earthy crunch that complements the creaminess of the pesto.

  7. 7

    7. Just before serving, drizzle the balsamic glaze in a decorative pattern over the salad to add a touch of sweetness and visual contrast.

  8. 8

    8. Garnish with whole fresh basil leaves to signal the primary flavor of the dish to your guests.

Balsamic Roasted Vegetable Fusilli

Balsamic Roasted Vegetable Fusilli

Roasting vegetables caramelizes their natural sugars, creating a depth of flavor that raw vegetables simply cannot match. This salad combines the smoky sweetness of roasted peppers, zucchini, and eggplant with the spiraled texture of fusilli. The 'zesty' element is introduced through a high-quality balsamic vinegar reduction, which provides a thick, syrupy acidity that ties the roasted elements together. This dish is inspired by the traditional 'Contorno' or vegetable side dishes of Italy, but elevated into a complete pasta salad. It is an excellent way to use up seasonal garden produce and offers a more complex flavor profile than standard raw-veggie pasta salads. The fusilli is particularly effective here as its shape mirrors the varying textures of the roasted vegetables.

Ingredients

  • 16 ounces fusilli pasta
  • 1 large zucchini, sliced into half-moons
  • 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
  • 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into chunks
  • 1 small eggplant, diced
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme

Directions

  1. 1

    1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius) and line two large baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

  2. 2

    2. Toss the sliced zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant in a large bowl with two tablespoons of olive oil, minced garlic, dried thyme, salt, and pepper until well coated.

  3. 3

    3. Spread the vegetables in a single layer across the baking sheets; do not crowd them, as they need space to roast and brown rather than steam.

  4. 4

    4. Roast the vegetables for 20 to 25 minutes, tossing them halfway through, until they are tender and have developed charred edges.

  5. 5

    5. While the vegetables roast, cook the fusilli in boiling salted water until al dente, then drain and set aside in a large bowl.

  6. 6

    6. In a small saucepan, simmer the balsamic vinegar over medium heat for about 5 minutes until it has reduced by half and becomes thick and syrupy.

  7. 7

    7. Combine the warm roasted vegetables with the pasta and drizzle with the remaining olive oil and the balsamic reduction.

  8. 8

    8. Toss everything together until the pasta and vegetables are coated in the dark, flavorful glaze, and serve either warm or at room temperature.

Caprese Fusilli with Fresh Basil and Mozzarella

Caprese Fusilli with Fresh Basil and Mozzarella

The Caprese salad is perhaps the most iconic of all Italian salads, representing the colors of the Italian flag: red, white, and green. By introducing fusilli pasta into this classic combination of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil, we create a more substantial dish that retains the simplicity and elegance of the original. The secret to a great Caprese pasta salad is using the freshest ingredients possible—vine-ripened tomatoes and high-quality fresh mozzarella are essential. A zesty balsamic vinaigrette replaces the traditional plain olive oil to give the pasta more character and to help the flavors adhere to the corkscrew shape of the fusilli. This recipe is a testament to the idea that the best meals are often those with the fewest, highest-quality components.

Ingredients

  • 16 ounces fusilli pasta
  • 1 pound ripe Roma tomatoes, diced
  • 10 ounces fresh mozzarella pearls
  • 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chiffonade
  • 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • 1/2 teaspoon sea salt

Directions

  1. 1

    1. Start by cooking the fusilli in a large pot of boiling water that has been salted; cook until it is just tender to the bite, then drain and rinse with cold water.

  2. 2

    2. Prepare the basil by using the 'chiffonade' technique: stack the leaves, roll them tightly like a cigar, and slice them into thin ribbons.

  3. 3

    3. Dice the Roma tomatoes into uniform cubes, removing excess seeds and juice to keep the salad from becoming too soggy.

  4. 4

    4. In a small jar, combine the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, and sea salt, then shake until the dressing is fully emulsified and slightly thickened.

  5. 5

    5. Place the cooled fusilli in a large serving bowl and add the diced tomatoes and mozzarella pearls.

  6. 6

    6. Pour the balsamic vinaigrette over the pasta and use a pair of tongs to toss everything together until the white mozzarella and red tomatoes are evenly distributed.

  7. 7

    7. Fold in the basil ribbons at the very end to prevent them from bruising or turning brown from the acidity in the vinegar.

  8. 8

    8. Serve immediately at room temperature to enjoy the soft texture of the fresh mozzarella, which can become rubbery if refrigerated for too long.

Thai-Style Spicy Peanut Noodle Salad

Thai-Style Spicy Peanut Noodle Salad

This recipe brings the bold, aromatic flavors of Southeast Asian street food to the pasta salad format. While it uses traditional linguine as a substitute for rice noodles, the soul of the dish lies in its complex peanut dressing. The dressing balances the four pillars of Thai cuisine: sweet (honey), sour (lime), salty (soy sauce), and spicy (sriracha). The addition of crunchy purple cabbage, shredded carrots, and snap peas provides a vibrant textural contrast to the soft noodles. This salad is exceptionally 'zesty' and refreshing, making it a standout dish for those who enjoy a bit of heat. It is a perfect example of culinary crossover, utilizing Italian pasta shapes to carry the intense and addictive flavors of Thailand.

Ingredients

  • 16 ounces linguine pasta
  • 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 tablespoon sriracha or chili paste
  • 1 cup shredded purple cabbage
  • 1/2 cup shredded carrots
  • 1/2 cup sugar snap peas, sliced
  • 1/4 cup crushed peanuts for garnish

Directions

  1. 1

    1. Cook the linguine in a large pot of boiling water; for this recipe, you want the noodles to be fully cooked rather than al dente so they remain soft when cold.

  2. 2

    2. Drain the noodles and rinse them thoroughly with cold water to remove the starch, which prevents them from clumping together in a block.

  3. 3

    3. In a microwave-safe bowl, lightly warm the peanut butter for 20 seconds to soften it, then whisk in the soy sauce, lime juice, honey, and sriracha until a smooth, pourable sauce forms.

  4. 4

    4. If the sauce is too thick, add a tablespoon of warm water at a time until it reaches the consistency of heavy cream.

  5. 5

    5. In a very large bowl, combine the cold linguine with the shredded cabbage, carrots, and sliced sugar snap peas.

  6. 6

    6. Pour the peanut dressing over the noodles and vegetables, and use your hands (with gloves) or tongs to work the sauce into the noodles, ensuring no clumps remain.

  7. 7

    7. Transfer the salad to a serving platter and sprinkle with crushed peanuts and perhaps some extra lime wedges for guests to squeeze over their portions.

  8. 8

    8. This salad can be served immediately, but the flavors develop significantly if allowed to sit in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before eating.

Sicilian Tuna and Caper Orecchiette

Sicilian Tuna and Caper Orecchiette

Sicilian cuisine is famous for its bold use of pantry staples like canned tuna, capers, and olives to create deeply flavorful meals. This pasta salad, featuring orecchiette or 'little ears', is designed to catch the small, salty capers and bits of tuna in its cup-like shape. It is a rustic dish that relies on the 'zest' of lemon and the briny punch of capers to provide a sophisticated Mediterranean flavor profile. Unlike many tuna-based salads, this version avoids mayonnaise entirely, opting instead for a clean lemon and olive oil base. This makes it a perfect choice for outdoor dining where cream-based dishes might not hold up. It is a hearty, protein-packed salad that evokes the sun-drenched coastlines of Southern Italy.

Ingredients

  • 16 ounces orecchiette pasta
  • 2 cans (5 oz each) high-quality tuna in olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons non-pareil capers, drained
  • 1/2 cup red onion, finely diced
  • 1/2 cup flat-leaf parsley, chopped
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes

Directions

  1. 1

    1. Boil the orecchiette in a large pot of salted water until it is tender; the center of the 'ears' can take a bit longer to cook than the edges, so test a few pieces before draining.

  2. 2

    2. Drain the pasta and let it cool in a large bowl, tossing it with a splash of olive oil to keep the shapes from nesting inside one another.

  3. 3

    3. Open the cans of tuna and drain most of the oil, then flake the tuna into large chunks using a fork; do not over-shred the tuna, as you want visible pieces in the salad.

  4. 4

    4. Finely dice the red onion and soak the pieces in cold water for ten minutes to remove the harsh 'bite', then pat them dry with a paper towel.

  5. 5

    5. In a small bowl, whisk the olive oil, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes together to create a simple but sharp dressing.

  6. 6

    6. Add the flaked tuna, drained capers, diced onion, and chopped parsley to the bowl with the cooled orecchiette.

  7. 7

    7. Pour the lemon dressing over the ingredients and toss gently with a large spoon to combine, being careful to keep the tuna chunks intact.

  8. 8

    8. Season with black pepper and a touch of salt, though the capers and tuna usually provide enough salinity; serve at room temperature for the best experience of the olive oil's fruitiness.

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