There’s something about pasta that just does it for me. But then there’s something about food that has the same effect so I’m not sure I’m being totally unbiased in that statement. Add some vibrant color, toss in some bold flavor with the perfect amount of seasoning and pasta of any kind proves to be a “simple classy” recipe that is hard for anyone to pass up.
The thing about confetti salad is anyone can be the author of this “simple classy” meal. It can be a side dish, main dish or an appetizer for bigger things to come. The pasta can be the main attraction with a side of vegetables and fresh herbs or it can partner with a slightly heartier protein like chicken or seafood and shine like the star that it is. Even more convenient is confetti salad is so versatile that any old pasta you have in your pantry could be mixed and used to make what appears to be a well thought out meal that in reality is an afterthought of gigantic proportions.
As I’m writing this I’m thinking black olives, some corn, and avocados would have made a beautiful addition to this already perfect salad. You see, it’s a recipe that is a confetti of ideas as well as ingredients. And since we decided turkey and ham were just too tired for a worn out encore presentation at our Christmas dinner, filet mignon, shrimp and roasted garlic mashed potatoes along with this beautiful salad made for a perfect alternative to the esteemed turkey. And it’s beautiful as well.
Confetti Salad
By Published: December 20, 2011
- Yield: 6 Servings
- Prep: 10 mins
A very classy simple recipe that tastes amazing and looks just as beautiful.
Ingredients
- 1/2 lb. pasta cooked (I used egg noodles)
- 2/3 cup feta cheese
- 3 T. capers
- fresh basil leaves torn
- 1 lb. cherry tomatoes
- 1/2 cup olives optional
- 6 chicken tenderloins grilled (optional)
- 2 T. hot sauce
- 1/2 cup red wine vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic chopped
- 1/4 tsp. salt
- 2 T. spicy brown mustard
- 1/2 tsp. sugar
- 1 cup extra virgin olive oil
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to the directions. On a platter arrange the pasta, capers, olives, chicken and tomatoes. Top with feta and sprinkle with fresh torn basil.
- In a food processor combine the first 6 ingredients starting with the hot sauce. Drizzle in the olive oil. Drench the pasta platter with this amazing dressing.
Looks great! One question – it says to combine the first 6 ingredients in the food processor; which ingredients should that really be? Starting with hot sauce?
Hi, Thanks! Yes it starts with the hot sauce. I corrected the instructions.