Looking for a delicious and refreshing dish to enjoy during the warm summer months? Look no further than our Best Garden Pasta Salad recipe! Packed with colorful veggies, savory herbs, and tangy dressing, this salad is not only flavorful but also simple to make. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or as a light weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. Let’s dive into creating this delightful Best Garden Pasta Salad.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 small cucumber, diced
– 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
– 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 1/4 cup black olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
– 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
– 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
For the dressing:
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
– 1 tbsp lemon juice
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Transfer to a large mixing bowl.
2. Add the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, black olives, feta cheese, basil, and parsley to the bowl with the pasta.
3. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.
4. Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.
5. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. Before serving, give the salad a final toss and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
7. Garnish with extra fresh herbs and a sprinkle of feta cheese before serving.
This Best Garden Pasta Salad is best enjoyed chilled, making it a perfect make-ahead option for busy days. The combination of fresh vegetables, tangy feta cheese, and aromatic herbs creates a delightful medley of flavors that will surely satisfy your taste buds. Feel free to customize this recipe by adding other garden-fresh ingredients such as zucchini, roasted red peppers, or artichoke hearts. The versatility of this dish makes it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. So, next time you’re in need of a light and flavorful meal, give this Best Garden Pasta Salad a try!
