Frühlingssalat Erdbeeren Feta Rucola

This Spring Pasta Salad is a celebration of fresh, seasonal ingredients. Combining the sweetness of ripe strawberries with the savory tang of feta and the peppery crunch of arugula, it is an effortless dish that brings a burst of color to any table. Whether you are hosting a garden party or looking for a light weekday lunch, this Mediterranean-inspired recipe is sure to impress.

Merken

The secret to this salad is the simple homemade dressing which ties the fruit and vegetables together perfectly. It is a light alternative to traditional mayo-based pasta salads, making it ideal for warmer weather.

Ingredients

• 250 g (9 oz) short pasta (such as fusilli or farfalle)
• Salt, for boiling water
• 100 g (3.5 oz) fresh arugula
• 250 g (9 oz) strawberries, hulled and quartered
• 1 small cucumber, diced
• 2 spring onions, thinly sliced
• 100 g (3.5 oz) feta cheese, crumbled
• 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1½ tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 1 tsp honey
• ½ small lemon, juiced
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
• Optional: 2 tbsp toasted pine nuts

Instructions

Step 1

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.

Step 2

In a large salad bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.

Step 3

Add the cooked pasta to the bowl and toss with the dressing.

Step 4

Fold in arugula, strawberries, cucumber, and spring onions. Gently toss to combine.

Step 5

Add crumbled feta and chopped basil. Toss lightly to distribute.

Step 6

Sprinkle with toasted pine nuts (if using) just before serving.

Step 7

Serve immediately or chill for up to 1 hour before serving.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

Rinsing the pasta under cold water is a crucial step to stop the cooking process immediately. This ensures the pasta maintains its al dente texture and prevents it from clumping together in the salad bowl.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For a gluten-free version, simply use your favorite gluten-free pasta. You can also customize the cheese by substituting goat cheese or mozzarella pearls for the feta. To make this a heartier meal, consider adding grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra protein.

Serviervorschläge

This refreshing salad pairs exceptionally well with a chilled glass of rosé or a sparkling water garnished with a slice of lemon. It is best served fresh but can be held in the refrigerator for about an hour to let the flavors meld.

Merken

With its bright colors and fresh taste, this Spring Pasta Salad with Strawberries, Feta, and Arugula is a delightful way to welcome the new season. Enjoy the balance of flavors in every bite!

Häufige Fragen zum Rezept

→ Kann ich andere Käsesorten statt Feta verwenden?

Ja, frischer Ziegenkäse oder kleine Mozzarellakugeln eignen sich ebenfalls sehr gut zu Erdbeeren und Rucola.

→ Wie verhindere ich, dass die Pasta klebt?

Nach dem Kochen die Pasta mit kaltem Wasser abspülen und im Dressing schwenken – so bleibt sie schön locker.

→ Welche Nudelsorte eignet sich am besten?

Kurzformen wie Fusilli oder Farfalle nehmen das Dressing und die Zutaten besonders gut auf.

→ Wie lange bleibt der Salat frisch?

Im Kühlschrank hält er sich zugedeckt bis zu 24 Stunden, frisch zubereitet schmeckt er am besten.

→ Kann ich Zutaten austauschen?

Natürlich! Versuchen Sie beispielsweise Feldsalat statt Rucola oder Kichererbsen für mehr Eiweiß.