Pasta salads are the ultimate go-to dish for warm weather gatherings, picnics, or as a side for family dinners. This delightful pasta salad recipe combines fresh vegetables, a tangy dressing, and tender pasta to create a dish that’s not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy side or a light main dish, this pasta salad will be a hit at any table.
Ingredients for Delightful Pasta Salad
For the Salad:
- 8 oz (225g) rotini or any pasta of your choice
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- ½ red onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup (150g) shredded mozzarella cheese or feta cheese
- 1 cup (150g) black olives, sliced
- 1 cup (100g) pepperoni slices (optional)
- ½ cup fresh parsley, chopped
For the Dressing:
- ¼ cup olive oil
- ¼ cup red wine vinegar
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp honey or sugar (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
How to Make Delightful Pasta Salad
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process, and set it aside to cool completely.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables and Cheese
- While the pasta cools, chop the vegetables: slice the cherry tomatoes in half, dice the cucumber and red bell pepper, and finely chop the red onion.
- Shred or cube the mozzarella cheese, and slice the black olives. If using, slice the pepperoni.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
- In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, oregano, garlic powder, and honey (if using).
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, and whisk until the dressing is emulsified.
Step 4: Assemble the Pasta Salad
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, prepared vegetables, cheese, olives, and pepperoni.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
- Cover the pasta salad and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
- Garnish with fresh parsley just before serving for a burst of color and freshness.
Tips for Perfect Pasta Salad
- Use Fresh Veggies: For the best flavor and texture, use fresh, in-season vegetables in this salad.
- Customize the Cheese: Feel free to switch up the cheese in the recipe. Feta, cheddar, or even Parmesan work wonderfully in pasta salads.
- Add Protein: To make the salad a main dish, add grilled chicken, tuna, or chickpeas for extra protein.
- Use Whole Grain Pasta: For a healthier version, choose whole wheat pasta or gluten-free pasta.
Variations to Try
- Mediterranean Pasta Salad: Swap out the pepperoni and mozzarella for Kalamata olives, cucumbers, red onions, and feta cheese, and add a squeeze of lemon juice for a Mediterranean twist.
- Vegan Pasta Salad: Skip the cheese and pepperoni, and use a dairy-free dressing (such as cashew or tahini-based) for a vegan version.
- Spicy Pasta Salad: Add a diced jalapeño or red pepper flakes to the dressing for a spicy kick.
- Creamy Pasta Salad: For a creamy variation, substitute the olive oil and vinegar dressing with a creamy dressing made of mayo, sour cream, and a bit of mustard.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Use Different Pasta Shapes?
Yes! While rotini is a great choice for holding the dressing, you can use any pasta you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or farfalle.
How Long Can I Store Pasta Salad in the Fridge?
This pasta salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s even better the next day when the flavors have had more time to develop.
Can I Make This Pasta Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, this salad is perfect for meal prep. Make it a day or two in advance to allow the ingredients to marinate and the flavors to meld.
Is This Recipe Gluten-Free?
No, this recipe uses regular pasta. However, you can easily make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta or another pasta alternative like chickpea pasta.
Can I Make This Recipe Without the Cheese?
Yes, if you prefer a lighter or dairy-free version, simply leave out the cheese. The salad will still be flavorful with the fresh vegetables and the tangy dressing.
Conclusion
Delightful Pasta Salad is a versatile, vibrant, and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue, preparing a potluck dish, or simply looking for a refreshing side to pair with dinner, this pasta salad delivers on flavor and freshness. With a variety of vegetables, cheese, and an irresistible homemade dressing, it’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
Experiment with different ingredients and dressings to make it your own, and don’t forget to chill it before serving for the best flavor. Whether as a light lunch, a picnic treat, or a side at dinner, this pasta salad is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.