Pasta Salad Recipe

Pasta salad is a versatile dish that’s perfect for picnics, potlucks, or as a refreshing side dish. This recipe combines pasta with colorful vegetables and a zesty dressing for a delicious and satisfying salad. Here’s how to make a simple pasta salad:

Ingredients:

• 8 oz (225g) pasta: Rotini, fusilli, or your favorite shape
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes: Halved
• 1/2 English cucumber: Diced
• 1/2 bell pepper: Red, yellow, or orange, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion: Finely chopped
• 1/4 cup black olives: Sliced (optional)
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley: Chopped

For the Dressing:

• 1/3 cup olive oil
• 3 tbsp red wine vinegar
• 1 clove garlic: Minced
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp honey or sugar
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper: To taste

Equipment:

• Large pot for cooking pasta
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Strainer

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:
   • Cook the pasta according to package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
2. Prepare the Vegetables:
   • While the pasta is cooking, prepare the vegetables. Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber and bell pepper, finely chop the red onion, and slice the black olives (if using). Place them all in a large mixing bowl.
3. Make the Dressing:
   • In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, honey or sugar, dried oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined.
4. Assemble the Salad:
   • Add the cooked and cooled pasta to the bowl of vegetables.
   • Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetables.
   • Add chopped fresh parsley.
   • Toss everything together gently until the pasta and vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing.
5. Chill and Serve:
   • Cover the pasta salad and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
   • Serve chilled as a side dish or a light main dish.

Tips for Success:

• Al Dente Pasta: Be careful not to overcook the pasta. It should be firm to the bite (al dente) for the best texture in the salad.
• Customization: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or feta cheese for additional protein and flavor.
• Storage: Pasta salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir well before serving leftovers.

Variations:

• Mediterranean Pasta Salad: Add sun-dried tomatoes, artichoke hearts, and crumbled feta cheese. Replace the parsley with fresh basil.
• Caprese Pasta Salad: Use cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), and fresh basil leaves. Drizzle with balsamic glaze instead of the vinaigrette.
• Asian-Inspired Pasta Salad: Toss the pasta with shredded cabbage, carrots, edamame, and a soy-sesame dressing.

This easy pasta salad recipe is versatile and perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the refreshing flavors and vibrant colors in this delicious dish!