Description
Pasta Salad is a fresh and colorful dish made with tender pasta, crisp vegetables, and a tangy dressing, perfect for picnics, potlucks, or quick meals.
Ingredients
- 3 cups (300 g) cooked pasta (rotini, fusilli, or penne), cooled
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp lemon juice or red wine vinegar
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool.
- In a large bowl combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, olives, feta cheese, and parsley.
- In a small bowl whisk together olive oil, lemon juice (or vinegar), Dijon mustard, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture.
- Toss everything together until evenly coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to develop.
- Toss again before serving and adjust seasoning if needed.
Notes
- Use any short pasta shape such as rotini, fusilli, or bow ties.
- Add proteins like grilled chicken, tuna, or chickpeas for a heartier salad.
- The salad tastes even better after chilling for a few hours.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean