Description:
This Colorful Pasta Salad combines al dente pasta, fresh vegetables, and a tangy dressing for a light, satisfying dish. Full of color, texture, and flavor, it’s a versatile salad that’s easy to customize.
Ingredients (Quantities):
- Rotini or bowtie pasta: 12 oz (about 3 cups, cooked al dente)
- Cherry tomatoes: 1 cup, halved
- Bell pepper: 1 cup, diced (use a mix of red, yellow, and green)
- Cucumber: 1 cup, diced
- Red onion: ½ small, finely diced
- Carrot: 1 medium, shredded
- Black olives: ½ cup, sliced
- Mozzarella or feta cheese: ¾ cup, cubed or crumbled
- Fresh parsley or basil: ¼ cup, chopped
For the Dressing:
- Olive oil: ⅓ cup
- Red wine vinegar: 3 tablespoons
- Dijon mustard: 1 tablespoon
- Honey: 1 teaspoon (optional)
- Garlic: 1 clove, minced
- Italian seasoning: 1 teaspoon
- Salt and pepper: to taste
Optional Ingredients:
- Pepperoncini: for a tangy kick
- Sun-dried tomatoes: ¼ cup, chopped
- Chickpeas: ½ cup, for added protein
Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
- Cook the pasta in salted water until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool, then set aside.
2. Prepare the Vegetables:
- In a large bowl, combine the tomatoes, bell peppers, cucumber, red onion, carrot, olives, cheese, and fresh herbs.
3. Make the Dressing:
- In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey (if using), garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
4. Combine and Toss:
- Add the pasta to the bowl of vegetables and pour the dressing over everything. Toss gently until everything is well coated.
5. Chill and Serve:
- For best flavor, refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled.
Tips for Success:
- Use Fresh Veggies: Fresh, crisp vegetables add great texture and color.
- Flavor Boost: Add a squeeze of lemon juice for an extra burst of brightness before serving.
- Make Ahead: This salad can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Recommendations:
- Pair with grilled chicken or seafood for a complete meal.
- Serve as a side dish for BBQs or picnics.
Nutrition (per serving, estimated):
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 6g
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 300mg
This Colorful Pasta Salad is a vibrant, versatile, and crowd-pleasing dish that’s as delicious as it is beautiful. Enjoy!
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