Print

Pasta Salad

Pasta Salad
Print Recipe

Classic Pasta Salad is a versatile, refreshing, and delicious dish perfect for picnics, family dinners, potlucks, or quick lunches. Combining bite-sized pasta with fresh vegetables, herbs, and an easy dressing, it offers a colorful and flavorful meal that can be customized to your taste or dietary preference. It is simple to prepare, can be made ahead, and suits every occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 2 cups bite-sized pasta (rotini, penne, or fusilli)

Fresh Vegetables

  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup cucumber, sliced
  • 1/2 cup bell peppers, diced (mixed colors)
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup olives, sliced

Fresh Herbs

  • 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • Optional: 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped

Cheese

  • 1/2 cup feta or mozzarella cheese cubes

Dressing

  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons vinegar (red wine or white) or lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: fresh or dried herbs for dressing

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bite-sized pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and rinse thoroughly under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it for the salad.
  2. Prepare Fresh Ingredients: While the pasta is cooking, wash and chop the fresh vegetables. Slice cucumbers, halve cherry tomatoes, dice bell peppers, finely chop red onions, and fresh herbs.
  3. Mix the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, vinegar or lemon juice, Dijon mustard (if using), salt, pepper, and any preferred herbs to create a vibrant dressing.
  4. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, gently toss the cooled pasta with fresh vegetables, olives, cheese cubes, and the dressing to ensure even coating and flavor distribution.
  5. Chill and Serve: Cover the pasta salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Before serving, give it a gentle toss for the best taste and texture.

Notes

  • Cook pasta al dente: Avoid mushy pasta by cooking just until tender but firm.
  • Rinse pasta thoroughly: Cooling the pasta prevents it from sticking and stops further cooking.
  • Use fresh herbs: Fresh herbs brighten the flavor more than dried herbs.
  • Taste the dressing: Adjust acidity and seasoning before tossing to match personal preference.
  • Let it rest: Chilling enhances the flavors and texture of the salad.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Stir before serving.
  • Freezing: Not recommended as texture of fresh ingredients may degrade.

Nutrition

Keywords: pasta salad, summer salad, potluck recipe, easy lunch, vegetarian salad, make-ahead salad, fresh vegetables, healthy salad, cold pasta dish

Find it online: https://ninagourmet.com/pasta-salad/