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Mediterranean Kale Pasta Salad

Mediterranean Kale Pasta Salad combines rotini, kale, feta, Parmesan, and sun-dried tomatoes with a bright pesto dressing. Easy to make, healthy, and perfect for meal prep, picnics, and family dinners.
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Prep Time 14 minutes
Course Salad
Cuisine Mediterranean

Ingredients
  

For the Salad

  • 3 cups rotini pasta
  • 3 cups kale stems removed and chopped into ½-inch ribbons
  • ½ cup feta cheese crumbles
  • ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ⅓ cup sun-dried tomatoes chopped

For the Dressing

  • ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons basil pesto
  • 3 tablespoons white balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon freshly minced garlic
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste

Instructions
 

  • Remove the tough stems from the kale and slice the leaves into thin ribbons. Place the kale in a large bowl, drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and massage with your hands for 1–2 minutes until softened and darker in color.
  • Cook the rotini pasta in generously salted boiling water according to the package directions until al dente. Drain well and allow it to cool slightly.
  • In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining olive oil, basil pesto, white balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, garlic, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper until smooth and emulsified.
  • In a large serving bowl, combine the softened kale, cooled pasta, feta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and chopped sun-dried tomatoes.
  • Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well until everything is evenly coated. Stir from the bottom of the bowl to distribute the dressing thoroughly.
  • Cover and refrigerate the Mediterranean Kale Pasta Salad for at least 30 minutes before serving so the flavors can blend together beautifully.

Notes

  • Freshly grated Parmesan provides the best flavor.
  • White balsamic vinegar creates a lighter dressing, but regular balsamic may be substituted.
  • The salad tastes even better after resting overnight in the refrigerator.
  • Serve alongside grilled chicken, seafood, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.