Pasta Salad Recipe

Pasta salad is a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish that can be served at picnics, barbecues, potlucks, or as a simple meal on its own. This awesome pasta salad recipe is easy to prepare, packed with fresh vegetables, and tossed in a zesty homemade dressing. It's perfect for any occasion and can be customized to suit your taste. Follow this detailed guide to make a delicious pasta salad that everyone will love.

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Ingredients:

• 12 ounces pasta (rotini, penne, or your favorite shape)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup cucumber, diced
• ½ cup red bell pepper, diced
• ½ cup yellow bell pepper, diced
• ½ cup red onion, finely chopped
• ½ cup black olives, sliced
• ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped

For the Dressing:

• ½ cup olive oil
• ¼ cup red wine vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation:

Step 1:
Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool completely.

Step 2:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. This will be your dressing.

Step 3:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, yellow bell pepper, red onion, black olives, and feta cheese. Toss gently to mix the ingredients evenly.

Step 4:
Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetable mixture. Use a large spoon or spatula to toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the dressing.

Step 5:
Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the top and give the salad one final toss. Ensure all ingredients are well mixed and evenly distributed.

Cooking Note:

For the best flavor, let the pasta salad sit in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and enhances the taste. If you're preparing the salad ahead of time, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Serving Suggestions:

Pasta salad is a versatile dish that can be served as a main course or a side. It pairs well with grilled chicken, fish, or steak. It's also a great addition to any potluck or picnic spread. You can serve it alongside burgers, hot dogs, or sandwiches for a complete meal. For a vegetarian option, add chickpeas or tofu for extra protein.

Tips:

• To add more flavor, marinate the vegetables in the dressing for 15-20 minutes before mixing with the pasta.
• Feel free to customize the salad by adding your favorite ingredients, such as roasted vegetables, artichoke hearts, or sun-dried tomatoes.
• For a creamier dressing, add a tablespoon of mayonnaise or Greek yogurt to the dressing mixture.
• If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce to the dressing.

Prep Time:

• 15 minutes

Cooking Time:

• 10 minutes (plus 1 hour refrigeration time)

Total Time:

• 1 hour 25 minutes

Nutritional Information:

• Calories: Approximately 250 calories per serving (1 cup)
• Protein: 6 grams
• Sodium: 350 milligrams

Conclusion

Making a pasta salad at home is both easy and rewarding. This awesome pasta salad recipe combines fresh vegetables, a tangy dressing, and al dente pasta to create a dish that's perfect for any occasion. Whether you're hosting a barbecue, attending a potluck, or simply looking for a quick and delicious meal, this pasta salad is sure to impress. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and the ease of preparation, and feel free to customize it to your liking. Happy cooking!

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