The BEST Pasta Salad

 

The BEST Pasta Salad

The BEST Pasta Salad is a crowd-pleaser that combines fresh, vibrant veggies with pasta and a tangy dressing. It’s perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a side dish for any meal. Here’s a simple yet delicious recipe:

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Ingredients

1 lb (16 oz) pasta (rotini, penne, or farfalle work well)

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cucumber, diced

1/2 red onion, thinly sliced

1/2 cup bell peppers, diced (any color)

1/2 cup black olives, sliced

1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

For the Dressing:

1/3 cup olive oil

3 tablespoons red wine vinegar

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

1 teaspoon honey (optional for sweetness)

1 garlic clove, minced

1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta:

Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool it down quickly.

2. Prepare the Vegetables:

While the pasta cooks, chop the tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, bell peppers, and olives. Set aside.

3. Make the Dressing:

In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper until smooth.

4. Assemble the Salad:

In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, chopped vegetables, black olives, and crumbled feta cheese.

5. Toss and Chill:

Pour the dressing over the salad and toss everything together until well coated.

Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

6. Garnish and Serve:

Before serving, garnish with fresh parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

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Tips:

Add Protein: Add grilled chicken, bacon, or chickpeas for extra protein.

Customization: Try adding other ingredients like roasted red peppers, artichokes, or fresh mozzarella balls for variety.

Make Ahead: This pasta salad holds up well for a couple of days, making it perfect for meal prep or events.

Enjoy this refreshing and flavorful pasta salad that’s sure to be a hit at any gathering!