Mediterranean Pasta Salad With Toasted Almond Vinaigrette Recipes

TOASTED ALMOND PASTA SALAD

Steps:

• Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Spread the almonds on a rimmed baking sheet and bake, tossing occasionally, until golden brown, 8 to 10 minutes.
• Meanwhile, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook as the label directs, then drain and rinse under cold water. Transfer to a serving bowl and toss with the olive oil, parmesan, lemon juice, shallot, thyme, 1 teaspoon salt and about half of the almonds. Season with salt and pepper. Top with the remaining almonds and the red pepper flakes.
• Photograph by Anna Williams

MEDITERRANEAN VINAIGRETTE FOR PASTA SALAD

Steps:

• Combine the tahini, olive oil, olives, vinegar, parsley, mustard, shallot, thyme and orange zest in a mixing bowl and whisk until evenly incorporated. Season with salt and pepper.

ENDIVE SALAD WITH TOASTED ALMOND VINAIGRETTE

Steps:

• Whisk shallots and vinegar in a medium bowl and season with salt and pepper. Gradually whisk in olive oil. Whisk in almonds. Re-season with salt and pepper. Toss endive in a large bowl with enough dressing to coat.

MEDITERRANEAN PASTA SALAD

Steps:

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente; drain, then rinse with cold water to cool.
• Meanwhile, make the vinaigrette: Whisk the vinegar, mustard, 1 teaspoon salt, and pepper to taste in a small bowl. Gradually whisk in enough of the oil to make a smooth dressing; season with salt and pepper.
• Combine the sun-dried tomatoes, basil, onion, pepperoncini, olives and oregano in a bowl. Add the cooked pasta, 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1 teaspoon pepper. Add the vinaigrette and both cheeses and toss. Chill until ready to serve.