Pasta salad is a refreshing and versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a main course or a side dish. It typically consists of cooked pasta combined with various vegetables, proteins, and a flavorful dressing. Pasta salads are popular for picnics, potlucks, and summer gatherings, as they are easy to prepare and can be customized to suit individual tastes.
Cooking time: 10-12 minutes (for pasta)
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Ready time: 25-30 minutes
Serves: 4-6
Ingredients:
- 2 cups uncooked pasta (penne, fusilli, or any preferred shape)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup bell peppers, diced (assorted colors for visual appeal)
- 1/4 cup red onions, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the dressing:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell peppers, red onions, black olives, feta cheese, and fresh parsley. Toss gently to combine.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, honey (or maple syrup), salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.
- Adjust the salt and pepper according to your taste preference.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Before serving, give the pasta salad a gentle toss and adjust the seasoning if needed.
- Serve chilled as a side dish or as a light and refreshing main course.
Pasta salads are highly customizable, and you can add or substitute ingredients based on your preferences. Feel free to include cooked chicken, shrimp, or additional vegetables to enhance the flavors. Enjoy this delicious and colorful pasta salad as a refreshing addition to your summer meals.
