Hot Honey Pasta Salad Recipe

Looking for a unique and flavorful pasta salad? This hot honey pasta salad is the perfect combination of sweet, spicy, creamy, and tangy flavors. Whether you’re preparing it for a summer BBQ, a quick lunch, or a side dish, this recipe is sure to impress!

Ingredients

For the Pasta Salad:

• 8 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or bowtie)
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
• 1/2 cup cucumber (diced)
• 1/4 cup red onion (thinly sliced)
• 1/2 cup feta cheese (crumbled)
• 1/4 cup black olives (sliced)
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped)

For the Hot Honey Dressing:

• 1/4 cup honey
• 1 tbsp hot sauce (adjust to taste)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Boil water in a large pot and add a pinch of salt.
2. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain the pasta and rinse it with cold water to stop the cooking process.
4. Set aside and let it cool completely.

Step 2: Make the Hot Honey Dressing

1. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, hot sauce, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Taste and adjust the spice level by adding more hot sauce if needed.
3. Set aside.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, black olives, and feta cheese.
2. Pour the hot honey dressing over the pasta mixture.
3. Toss everything together until well coated.
4. Garnish with fresh parsley for extra flavor.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

1. Let the pasta salad sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.
2. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Tips for the Best Hot Honey Pasta Salad

• Use fresh ingredients – Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance the taste.
• Adjust spice level – Add more or less hot sauce to suit your taste.
• Make ahead – This salad tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge.
• Add protein – Mix in grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a heartier dish.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different pasta type?

Yes! Any short pasta like bowtie, fusilli, or macaroni works well.

2. How long does this pasta salad last?

It stays fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container.

3. What can I substitute for feta cheese?

Goat cheese, mozzarella, or even Parmesan are great alternatives.

4. Is this salad spicy?

It has a mild kick from the hot honey dressing, but you can adjust the spice level.

5. Can I make it vegan?

Yes! Use a vegan cheese substitute and maple syrup instead of honey.