When the sun starts shining and the warmer weather calls for something fresh and filling, look no further than our delightful recipe for Fresh Healthy Pasta Salad. This vibrant dish combines colorful veggies, flavorful herbs, and perfectly cooked pasta for a delightful meal that’s as beautiful as it is tasty. Whether you’re planning a picnic in the park or just looking to add some zing to your weeknight dinner, this pasta salad is a winner every time.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz whole wheat pasta
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 English cucumber, diced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup black olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Dressing:
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the whole wheat pasta according to the package instructions, ensuring it is cooked al dente. Once done, drain and rinse under cold water to cool down.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, black olives, basil, and parsley. Toss gently to mix everything together evenly.
3. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined. This will be your flavorful dressing.
4. Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetable mixture, ensuring everything is well coated in the delicious dressing. Toss gently once again to make sure the flavors are distributed throughout.
5. For the best results, cover the pasta salad and refrigerate for at least an hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and for the salad to chill, making it perfect for warm weather enjoyment.
6. When you’re ready to serve, give the salad a final toss to redistribute the dressing. Feel free to garnish with some extra fresh herbs for a lovely presentation.
Fresh Healthy Pasta Salad is a versatile dish that can be served as a main course or as a side dish to complement your favorite grilled meats or seafood. It’s perfect for parties, potlucks, or easy make-ahead lunches. The combination of colorful veggies, fragrant herbs, and tangy dressing makes every bite a delightful burst of flavors and textures. So, the next time you’re looking for a dish that’s both healthy and delicious, give this Fresh Healthy Pasta Salad a try – it’s sure to become a new favorite in your recipe collection!
