Acini di Pepe Salad is a refreshing and versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion, from casual barbecues to elegant dinner parties. Originating from Italy, this delightful salad features tiny, bead-like pasta, which is the star of the show. With its light, tangy dressing and a medley of fresh vegetables and sometimes even fruits, it’s not only delicious but also offers a burst of texture and flavor in every bite. Whether you’re looking for a perfect side dish or a main meal for a warm day, Acini di Pepe Salad is sure to impress.
Acini di Pepe Salad Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 cup Acini di Pepe pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the Acini di Pepe pasta and cook according to package instructions (usually around 8-10 minutes). Make sure to cook the pasta al dente, as it will hold up better in the salad.
- Once cooked, drain and rinse the pasta under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set it aside to cool completely.
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- While the pasta is cooking, prepare the vegetables. Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber and red bell pepper, and thinly slice the red onion. Slice the black olives and crumble the feta cheese. Chop the fresh basil for garnish.
- Make the Dressing:
- In a small bowl or jar, combine the olive oil, white wine vinegar, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and honey (if using). Whisk together until smooth and emulsified. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Assemble the Salad:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled Acini di Pepe pasta with the prepared vegetables, black olives, and feta cheese. Add the dressing and toss gently until everything is well coated.
- Chill the Salad:
- Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together and for the salad to chill.
- Serve:
- Before serving, give the salad a final gentle toss and garnish with freshly chopped basil for a pop of color and added flavor. Serve chilled as a refreshing side dish or a light main course.
Optional Variations:
- Add grilled chicken for a more substantial meal.
- Include some fruit like diced apples, grapes, or oranges for a sweet twist.
- Use different cheese, like mozzarella or goat cheese, for a different flavor profile.
Tips:
- You can make this salad ahead of time; in fact, it tastes even better after it sits in the fridge for a few hours.
- To make the salad more tangy, add a bit more lemon juice or vinegar.
- For extra crunch, toss in some toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds.
To discover more amazing recipes like Acini di Pepe Salad Recipe, check out our previous article for more delicious food ideas! : Quesillo (Venezuelan Flan) Recipe
