If your taste buds are ready for an unforgettable burst of flavor, this Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Salad Recipe is about to become your new go-to dish for gatherings, meal prep, or even a simple weeknight dinner. Packed with tangy sun-dried tomatoes, salty feta, hearty pasta, and a medley of Mediterranean-inspired goodies, every forkful is a celebration of color and taste. Whether you’re planning a picnic, searching for a vibrant side, or craving a satisfying meatless meal, you’ll love how quickly this comes together—and how the flavors only get better as it chills in your fridge!

Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Salad Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Salad Recipe features just the right balance of fresh and pantry staples. Each ingredient is chosen for its role in building bold flavors, vibrant colors, and irresistible textures that make every bite a little celebration.

Pasta (12 ounces rotini or penne): A sturdy, curly pasta like rotini or tube-shaped penne traps all that flavorful dressing, making every bite pop.
Sun-dried tomatoes in oil (1/2 cup, chopped): These little gems add a sweet, tangy intensity—use some of the oil for an even richer dressing.
Cherry tomatoes (1 cup, halved): For fresh, juicy bursts of flavor that brighten the whole salad.
Black olives (1/2 cup, sliced): Their briny, bold flavor gives a welcome salty punch.
Feta cheese (1/2 cup, crumbled): Creamy and tangy, feta complements both the sun-dried and fresh tomatoes perfectly.
Red onion (1/4 cup, finely diced): Offers crunch and a gentle bite without taking over.
Fresh basil (1/4 cup, chopped): Adds a fragrant, herby note that screams summer.
Capers (2 tablespoons, optional): If you love a little extra tang, these tiny flavor bombs are for you!
Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup, grated): A finishing touch of nutty, salty goodness that elevates the salad.
Olive oil (1/3 cup, preferably from sun-dried tomato jar): Infused oil means even more tomato flavor in your dressing.
Red wine vinegar (2 tablespoons): For a tart edge that wakes up all the other flavors.
Garlic (1 clove, minced): A hint of raw garlic brings depth and bite to the dressing.
Dijon mustard (1 teaspoon): Acts as an emulsifier, keeping your dressing smooth and adding subtle sharpness.
Dried oregano (1/2 teaspoon): Classic Mediterranean flavor that ties it all together.
Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning every element just right.

How to Make Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Salad Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a big pot of salted water to a boil, then add your rotini or penne. Cook according to the package directions until the pasta is perfectly al dente—it should be tender but still have a nice bite. Drain thoroughly and rinse with cold water to halt the cooking and cool the pasta quickly. This step makes sure your noodles don’t get mushy when you mix everything together later.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

In a large mixing bowl (big enough to hold the whole salad later!), whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, dried oregano, and a good pinch each of salt and pepper. If you can use oil from the sun-dried tomato jar, even better—the tomato-infused oil gives your dressing an extra punch and ties all the flavors together beautifully.

Step 3: Combine the Main Ingredients

Add your cooled pasta to the bowl with the dressing, tossing gently so every piece gets coated. Layer in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, halved cherry tomatoes, black olives, crumbled feta, diced red onion, fresh basil, capers (if using), and grated Parmesan. Now is when your kitchen starts to smell incredible!

Step 4: Toss Everything Together

Using two large utensils (or your clean hands), toss all the ingredients thoroughly. The goal is to ensure every single bite is packed with a mix of flavors—no bland noodles here! Give it a quick taste and adjust the seasoning with extra salt or pepper if needed.

Step 5: Chill and Let Flavors Meld

Transfer your salad to the fridge and chill it for at least 30 minutes before serving. This rest time allows all those gorgeous Mediterranean flavors to mingle and deepen. You can make this salad up to a day in advance, making it a lifesaver for busy hosts or meal preppers.

How to Serve Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Salad Recipe

Garnishes

Just before serving, sprinkle a little extra fresh basil or a handful of toasted pine nuts over the top for added color and crunch. A final dusting of Parmesan or a few more crumbles of feta also makes it extra tempting.

Side Dishes

This Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Salad Recipe shines alongside grilled meats, especially chicken or shrimp, or as part of a picnic spread with fresh fruit, crusty bread, and maybe even a light, zesty soup. It’s also lovely with roasted veggies or as a star in any Mediterranean-inspired feast.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your salad in a large, colorful bowl to show off all those vibrant ingredients, or go cute with individual mason jars for grab-and-go lunches. You can even tuck spoonfuls into lettuce cups for a fun, party-ready appetizer that’ll have your friends raving.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have extra Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Salad Recipe, simply store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It keeps well for up to 3 days, and many find the flavor gets even better after spending some time chilling!

Freezing

While freezing pasta salads isn’t generally recommended (the texture tends to suffer), you can freeze the cooked plain pasta and sun-dried tomatoes separately if you plan to make a big batch in advance. Assemble the salad fresh for the best flavor and texture.

Reheating

This pasta salad is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, but if you prefer, let it sit out for 20-30 minutes to take the chill off. If you’ve added chicken or other proteins, you can gently heat those pieces separately.

FAQs

Can I use gluten-free pasta for this Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Salad Recipe?

Yes, absolutely! Any sturdy gluten-free pasta will work here—just be sure to check the cooking time as some gluten-free varieties can be a bit softer or cook faster. The salad will still have all those wonderful Mediterranean flavors.

How far in advance can I make this salad?

This salad is a meal-prep dream and can be made up to a day ahead. In fact, chilling overnight lets the flavors meld, making it even more delicious the next day!

Can I add protein to make this a main dish?

Certainly! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas all pair beautifully with the flavors in this Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Salad Recipe. Just stir in your favorite pre-cooked protein for a satisfying, complete meal.

Are capers necessary, or can I leave them out?

Capers are optional but highly recommended if you love a briny, tangy flavor. If you’re not a fan, just leave them out—the salad will still be wonderful without them.

What other vegetables work well in this salad?

Feel free to toss in diced cucumber, roasted red peppers, or even a handful of arugula or baby spinach for another layer of freshness and crunch. The Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Salad Recipe is super versatile!

Final Thoughts

I can’t wait for you to try this Sun Dried Tomato Pasta Salad Recipe and fall for its colorful looks and bold flavors. It’s one of those unique salads that’s equally at home at the fanciest dinner or the most casual lunchbox. Give it a spot in your meal rotation—you’re definitely in for a treat!