Description
This Pasta Salad is a colorful, refreshing side dish with tender pasta, fresh vegetables, and a light vinaigrette. Perfect for summer gatherings, potlucks, and family meals.
Ingredients
12 oz (340g) pasta of your choice (rotini, penne, or bowtie)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup cucumber, diced
1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/2 cup black olives, sliced
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/3 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar or lemon juice
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Optional: 1/2 cup feta cheese or mozzarella cubes
Instructions
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, olives, and parsley.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the cooled pasta to the vegetable mixture and pour the dressing over it.
5. Toss gently to combine, ensuring the pasta and vegetables are evenly coated.
6. If desired, fold in feta cheese or mozzarella cubes for added flavor.
7. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
8. Serve cold or at room temperature.
Notes
Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta if preferred.
Add fresh herbs like basil or dill for extra flavor.
Mix in cooked chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a protein boost.
Swap the vinaigrette with a creamy dressing for a different flavor.
Add seasonal vegetables like zucchini or corn for variety.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish, Salad
- Method: Boiling & Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 0mg