This Spicy Pasta Salad is the ultimate summer dish, packed with smoky Gouda, juicy tomatoes, and aromatic basil. The addition of Dijon mustard and red wine vinegar brings a tangy kick to the creamy dressing, making each bite irresistible. It’s an ideal side dish for BBQs, picnics, and casual meals, offering a fresh, flavorful option that pairs perfectly with grilled meats or serves as a light meal on its own.
The combination of textures in this salad is truly delightful. The tender pasta, creamy dressing, and crunchy fresh ingredients create a refreshing contrast. The smoky Gouda adds depth to the dish, while the basil provides a fragrant touch. Whether served at a summer gathering or as a weeknight dinner, this Spicy Pasta Salad with Smoked Gouda, Tomatoes, and Basil will impress everyone at the table.
Full Recipe:
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1 lb rotini pasta
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1 1/2 cups smoked Gouda, cubed
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2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
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1 cup fresh basil, chopped
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1/2 cup red onion, finely diced
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1/2 cup mayonnaise
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2 tbsp Dijon mustard
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2 tbsp red wine vinegar
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1 tbsp olive oil
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1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
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Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions:
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Cook the rotini pasta according to the package directions. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
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In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, smoked Gouda, cherry tomatoes, basil, and red onion.
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In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, red wine vinegar, olive oil, and crushed red pepper flakes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss to combine.
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Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes
Kcal: 450 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
History and Origin
Pasta salads have long been a staple in American and European cuisines, often appearing at picnics, barbecues, and potlucks as a refreshing and easy-to-make side dish. The concept of combining pasta with vegetables, herbs, and a creamy or vinaigrette-based dressing originated in the United States in the mid-20th century, drawing influence from European-style salads like the classic Italian pasta alla caprese.
The specific version of this pasta salad, featuring smoked Gouda, tomatoes, and basil, reflects a modern twist on the traditional pasta salad. Smoked Gouda, a Dutch cheese with a rich, smoky flavor, adds an unexpected depth to the dish. Gouda itself has its roots in the Netherlands, dating back to the 12th century, but the smoked variety only gained popularity in the last few decades. Basil, a key ingredient in Mediterranean cuisine, enhances the salad with its fragrant and aromatic quality, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that marry together beautifully. The inclusion of cherry tomatoes also adds a burst of sweetness, complementing the savory richness of the Gouda.
Though pasta salad is commonly associated with American cuisine, variations of pasta dishes with fresh vegetables and cheese can be found throughout the world, making this dish a delightful fusion of culinary influences. The addition of smoked Gouda and fresh basil gives it a distinctly modern and cosmopolitan touch.
Variations and Adaptations
While this Spicy Pasta Salad with Smoked Gouda, Tomatoes, and Basil is delicious as is, there are countless ways to personalize it to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. For those who enjoy a heartier dish, adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or even bacon can elevate the salad into a main course. For a vegetarian version, roasted vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant would work wonderfully, providing an extra layer of flavor and texture.
You can also experiment with different types of pasta. While rotini is great for holding the creamy dressing, other pasta shapes like fusilli, penne, or farfalle can also work. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, try substituting the pasta with gluten-free pasta made from rice, quinoa, or chickpeas.
For cheese lovers, you could replace the smoked Gouda with other flavorful cheeses such as smoked cheddar, fontina, or even a crumbly blue cheese for a more pungent flavor. To add even more depth, try incorporating some fresh herbs like oregano, thyme, or even arugula, all of which complement the creamy dressing and smoky cheese beautifully.
Those who prefer a milder salad can reduce the amount of red pepper flakes or omit them entirely, while those craving more heat can increase the amount of spice or even add a few chopped jalapeños. A drizzle of balsamic glaze or a splash of lemon juice can also be added for extra tang.
Nutritional Information
This Spicy Pasta Salad with Smoked Gouda, Tomatoes, and Basil is a well-rounded dish, offering a balance of carbohydrates, protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals. While it is rich and indulgent, it can still be part of a healthy diet when enjoyed in moderation.
A typical serving of this pasta salad contains approximately 450 calories, making it a filling yet not overly heavy choice for a light lunch or dinner. The pasta provides a good amount of carbohydrates, offering energy for the body. Smoked Gouda, while flavorful, is also a source of protein and healthy fats, particularly when compared to many other cheeses. The addition of fresh tomatoes and basil boosts the nutritional profile with vitamins A and C, antioxidants, and fiber.
The dressing, made from mayonnaise and Dijon mustard, adds a creamy texture and a small amount of fat, but you can lighten it up by opting for a low-fat or vegan mayonnaise alternative. The Dijon mustard also contains small amounts of calcium, iron, and magnesium.
For those tracking macronutrients, this pasta salad is moderate in fats, with a focus on unsaturated fats from the olive oil in the dressing and the Gouda. The dish also provides a decent amount of protein thanks to the cheese, while the pasta contributes primarily carbohydrates.
In terms of micronutrients, the tomatoes and basil contribute essential vitamins and antioxidants. Tomatoes are an excellent source of vitamin C, potassium, and lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that may support heart health. Basil is a rich source of vitamin K, vitamin A, and essential oils that have anti-inflammatory properties.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Spicy Pasta Salad with Smoked Gouda, Tomatoes, and Basil is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with a wide range of other foods and beverages. As a side dish, it complements grilled meats such as chicken, steak, or pork, making it an ideal companion for a BBQ or cookout. It also works well with seafood dishes like grilled shrimp or salmon, as the smoky cheese and spicy dressing balance the lightness of the fish.
For a vegetarian or vegan-friendly meal, consider pairing the pasta salad with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or a hearty vegetable-based soup. It also goes wonderfully with a warm, crusty loaf of bread for dipping, or as part of a Mediterranean-inspired spread featuring olives, hummus, and roasted nuts.
In terms of beverages, this pasta salad pairs nicely with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. For a more casual, refreshing option, consider a cold glass of iced tea with a lemon wedge. If you’re serving this salad at a summer gathering, a light, citrusy cocktail like a gin and tonic or a mojito would also be a perfect match.
Tips and Tricks for Success
To ensure that this pasta salad turns out perfectly every time, there are a few tips to keep in mind. First, be sure to cook the pasta al dente. Overcooked pasta can become mushy and absorb too much dressing, making the salad heavy and soggy. Rinsing the pasta under cold water immediately after draining it helps stop the cooking process and keeps the pasta firm.
The dressing is key to the flavor of this salad. Be sure to whisk the ingredients together thoroughly to create a smooth and creamy consistency. If you like a creamier dressing, feel free to add a little more mayonnaise or even a spoonful of Greek yogurt for extra tang.
Allowing the pasta salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving allows the flavors to meld together, creating a more cohesive taste. If you plan to make the salad ahead of time, you can also prepare the dressing separately and toss it with the pasta and veggies just before serving to prevent the salad from becoming too soggy.
Potential Health Benefits
The ingredients in Spicy Pasta Salad with Smoked Gouda, Tomatoes, and Basil offer a variety of potential health benefits. Tomatoes, in particular, are packed with lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that may reduce the risk of heart disease and cancer. Basil, with its anti-inflammatory properties, can help support digestive health and boost the immune system.
Smoked Gouda provides protein and calcium, both of which are important for muscle function and bone health. Additionally, the olive oil in the dressing provides healthy fats that support heart health, as well as anti-inflammatory benefits.
While this dish can be indulgent due to the creamy dressing and cheese, it also contains plenty of fresh ingredients like tomatoes and basil that contribute to overall well-being. It’s a great example of how a dish can be both delicious and nutritious when made with wholesome ingredients.
Conclusion
Spicy Pasta Salad with Smoked Gouda, Tomatoes, and Basil is a flavorful, satisfying dish that’s perfect for warm weather and casual gatherings. With its combination of smoky cheese, fresh vegetables, and a tangy, spicy dressing, it’s sure to impress anyone at the table. Whether you serve it as a side dish or a main course, this recipe is easy to make, customizable, and always a hit. So why not try it out for your next meal or summer party? Your guests will thank you!