This Anellini Pasta Salad with Zucchini, Feta & Mint is a cool and refreshing twist on a light lunch or side salad. Tender anellini pasta—those fun, bouncy little rings—form the base of this small pasta salad, perfectly paired with thinly sliced zucchini, crumbled feta cheese, and fresh mint leaves for a bright, herby finish.
It’s quick to prep: just cook the pasta until al dente, lightly sauté or blanch the zucchini for a slight crisp, then toss everything together with a simple vinaigrette for a zesty pasta salad that’s ideal for summer cookouts, fresh salads, or an easy vegetable bowl. Serve chilled for maximum refreshment on warm days.
Refreshing Anellini Pasta Salad
This Anellini Pasta Salad with Zucchini, Feta & Mint is a delightful option for those seeking cool summer salads. The bouncy anellini pasta rings create a playful base, perfectly complemented by thinly sliced zucchini, creamy feta cheese, and aromatic mint leaves.
In just about 25 minutes, you can whip up this small pasta salad, making it an ideal choice for a light lunch or a vibrant side salad. The combination of flavors and textures results in a zesty pasta salad that shines at summer gatherings or as part of a fresh vegetable bowl.
Ingredients That Shine
The ingredients in this salad are simple yet impactful. The anellini pasta serves as the foundation, while the zucchini adds a crisp bite. Crumbled feta introduces a creamy element, and fresh mint leaves provide a burst of herbal freshness.
Drizzled with a light vinaigrette, this dish not only looks inviting but also offers a refreshing taste that is perfect for warm days. Each bite is a celebration of summer, making it a must-try for anyone looking for easy salad recipes.
Preparation Made Easy
Preparing this salad is straightforward and quick. Start by cooking the anellini pasta until it reaches the perfect al dente texture. While the pasta cools, sauté or blanch the zucchini to maintain its crispness.
Once everything is ready, combine the pasta, zucchini, feta, and mint in a large bowl. The dressing, made from olive oil and lemon juice, ties all the flavors together beautifully. A quick toss ensures every ingredient is coated, enhancing the overall taste.
Chilling for Flavor
After mixing, allow the salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes. This step is essential as it allows the flavors to meld, resulting in a more cohesive dish. Serving it chilled maximizes the refreshing qualities, making it a perfect accompaniment for summer meals.
Whether you enjoy it as a light lunch or as a side salad at your next barbecue, this Anellini Pasta Salad is sure to impress. Its vibrant colors and fresh ingredients make it not only appealing to the eye but also a treat for the palate.
Nutrition and Serving Suggestions
This salad serves four and is a nutritious option, with each serving containing approximately 220 calories. It’s a great way to incorporate vegetables into your diet while enjoying a satisfying meal.
Pair it with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal, or serve it alongside other fresh salads for a colorful spread. The versatility of this dish makes it a staple for any summer gathering, ensuring that everyone leaves the table satisfied.
Final Thoughts on Anellini Pasta Salad
The Anellini Pasta Salad with Zucchini, Feta & Mint stands out as a refreshing choice for warm weather. Its combination of textures and flavors, along with the ease of preparation, makes it a go-to recipe for anyone looking to enjoy cool summer salads.
Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply looking for a quick meal, this zesty pasta salad is sure to become a favorite. Embrace the freshness of summer with this delightful dish that celebrates the season’s best ingredients.
Refreshing Anellini Pasta Salad
This salad features bouncy anellini pasta combined with crisp zucchini, creamy feta, and fragrant mint, all tossed in a light vinaigrette. The recipe takes about 25 minutes from start to finish and serves 4 people.
Ingredients
- 2 cups anellini pasta
- 1 medium zucchini, thinly sliced
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon salt, adjust to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the anellini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- Prepare the Zucchini: In a skillet, heat a little olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced zucchini and sauté for 2-3 minutes until just tender but still crisp. Alternatively, blanch the zucchini in boiling water for 1-2 minutes.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, sautéed zucchini, crumbled feta, and chopped mint.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and garlic powder if using.
- Toss Salad: Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss gently to combine. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate for at least 15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 220kcal
- Fat: 14g
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 20g