Smoky Chipotle & Artichoke Pasta Salad
Elevate your potluck game with this vibrant and hearty Smoky Chipotle & Artichoke Pasta Salad. Packed with a delightful combination of smoked mozzarella, tangy artichoke hearts, and sweet sun-dried tomatoes, this dish brings together a medley of textures and flavors. With a kick of chipotle and a creamy touch of mayonnaise, it's a crowd-pleaser perfect for any gathering. Ideal for busy families, this simple, no-fuss recipe is thrown together easily with minimally-prepped ingredients, making it a go-to for school parties, family reunions, or casual summertime picnics. Let it chill overnight for the best flavor infusion, and enjoy a dish that truly embodies the spirit of communal dining!
8
Servings
N/A
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
Pasta (curly or tube)
16 ounces (Cooked al dente, drained, and cooled)
Smoked mozzarella cheese
10 ounces (Diced)
Artichoke hearts
1 can (10 ounces) (Chopped)
Sun-dried tomatoes with Italian herbs
1 jar (6-8 ounces) (Chopped, oil reserved)
Grape or cherry tomatoes
12 ounces (Halved)
Fresh spinach
6 ounces (Diced)
Chipotle garnishing sauce or chipotles in adobo
To taste (Use some sauce and adjust to spice preference)
Coarse salt
To taste (For seasoning)
Fresh ground pepper
To taste (For seasoning)
Mayonnaise
To taste (optional) (Added for creaminess, about 1/4 cup recommended)
Instructions
1
1. Begin by cooking the pasta al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside to cool.
2
2. As the pasta cools, prepare the other ingredients: dice the smoked mozzarella into small cubes, chop the artichoke hearts, and use kitchen shears to cut the sun-dried tomatoes into bite-sized pieces.
3
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with the diced mozzarella, chopped artichoke hearts, halved grape or cherry tomatoes, and cut sun-dried tomatoes.
4
4. Drizzle the reserved sun-dried tomato oil and the chipotle garnishing sauce over the pasta mixture. Adjust the amount based on your desired spice level, mixing well.
5
5. Season with coarse salt and fresh ground pepper to taste, tossing everything together to ensure it's evenly coated. If you prefer a creamy salad, add mayonnaise gradually until you reach your desired creaminess.
6
6. For a spicier variation, incorporate diced chipotle chiles in adobo sauce instead of or in addition to the garnishing sauce.
7
7. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for a few hours to allow the flavors to meld; overnight chilling is recommended for the best taste.
8
8. Just before serving, fold in the fresh diced spinach and give it one last gentle toss.
9
9. Serve at room temperature and be sure to have salt handy—it's key to enhancing the smoky chipotle flavors!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main flavor profile of this pasta salad?
The salad features a vibrant and hearty profile with smoky mozzarella, tangy artichoke hearts, sweet sun-dried tomatoes, and a kick of chipotle.
What kind of pasta is recommended for this recipe?
Curly or tube-shaped pasta, such as rotini or penne, is recommended to better hold the sauce and ingredients.
How much pasta do I need?
The recipe calls for 16 ounces of pasta, cooked al dente, drained, and cooled.
What type of cheese is used?
The recipe uses 10 ounces of diced smoked mozzarella cheese for a distinct smoky flavor.
How should I prepare the artichoke hearts?
Use one 10-ounce can of artichoke hearts, which should be drained and chopped.
Do I need to save the oil from the sun-dried tomatoes?
Yes, you should reserve the oil from the jar to drizzle over the pasta mixture for extra flavor.
What is the best way to cut sun-dried tomatoes?
Using kitchen shears is the easiest way to cut sun-dried tomatoes into bite-sized pieces.
What kind of fresh tomatoes should I add?
The recipe uses 12 ounces of grape or cherry tomatoes, halved.
When should I add the fresh spinach?
Fold in the fresh diced spinach just before serving to ensure it remains vibrant and doesn't wilt too much.
How do I make the pasta salad creamy?
You can gradually add mayonnaise until you reach your desired level of creaminess; about 1/4 cup is recommended.
How do I adjust the spiciness?
Adjust the amount of chipotle garnishing sauce to your preference, or add diced chipotle chiles in adobo for a bigger kick.
Is it necessary to chill the salad before serving?
Yes, refrigerating for a few hours is necessary, though chilling it overnight is recommended for the best flavor infusion.
What is the suggested serving temperature?
It is best served at room temperature to fully enhance the smoky chipotle flavors.
Why is salt important in this recipe?
Salt is key to enhancing the smoky chipotle flavors; have extra handy to season just before serving.
How many people does this recipe serve?
This recipe makes approximately 8 servings.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, this is an ideal make-ahead dish as the flavors meld and improve while resting in the refrigerator.
Is this recipe suitable for potlucks?
Absolutely, it is specifically designed as a crowd-pleasing dish for gatherings, reunions, and picnics.
What should I do if the pasta is too dry after chilling?
You can add a little more reserved sun-dried tomato oil or another spoonful of mayonnaise to restore moisture.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
While smoked mozzarella is preferred for flavor, you can substitute with regular mozzarella or provolone if needed.
How should the spinach be prepared?
The fresh spinach should be diced into small pieces before being folded into the salad.
What is the recommended seasoning?
Use coarse salt and fresh ground pepper to taste.
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Fresh spinach is highly recommended for the best texture and color in this cold salad.
Is this a quick recipe to prepare?
Yes, it uses minimally-prepped ingredients and simple steps, making it perfect for busy families.
Can I add meat to this salad?
While the recipe is vegetarian, you can easily add grilled chicken or salami if you prefer a meat-inclusive version.
How do I prepare the pasta for the salad?
Cook the pasta al dente according to the package, then drain and let it cool completely before mixing.
What kind of sun-dried tomatoes work best?
A jar of sun-dried tomatoes with Italian herbs (6-8 ounces) provides the best flavor base.
Can I use frozen artichokes?
Canned or jarred artichokes are preferred for their tanginess, but thawed and drained frozen hearts can work in a pinch.
Does this recipe contain many ingredients?
The recipe has 10 main ingredients, most of which require very little preparation.
Is this recipe spicy?
It has a smoky heat from the chipotle, but the level of spice is easily adjustable based on how much sauce you add.
How should leftovers be stored?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.