When the weather warms up and the sun shines bright, a light and refreshing pasta salad is the perfect dish to enjoy. This Cold Olive Oil Pasta Salad recipe combines the simplicity of pasta with the vibrant flavors of fresh vegetables and herbs, all tossed in a tangy olive oil dressing. It’s a delightful dish that’s ideal for picnics, potlucks, or a quick and easy meal at home. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that will leave you feeling satisfied and refreshed.
Cold Olive Oil Pasta Salad
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pasta of your choice
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cucumber, diced
– 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
– 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
– 1/4 cup fresh basil, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Olive Oil Dressing:
– 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon 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. Place the pasta in a large mixing bowl.
2. In the same bowl, add the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, Kalamata olives, basil, and parsley. Toss everything gently to combine.
3. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.
4. Pour the olive oil dressing over the pasta mixture and toss everything until evenly coated. Make sure all the ingredients are well combined and coated with the dressing.
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 pasta salad a final toss and taste for seasoning. Add more salt and pepper if needed.
7. Serve the Cold Olive Oil Pasta Salad chilled, garnished with additional fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy this delightful and colorful dish that is bursting with flavors!
Creating this Cold Olive Oil Pasta Salad is not only easy but also a flavorful way to enjoy a light and satisfying meal. The tangy olive oil dressing pairs perfectly with the crisp vegetables and herbs, making it a delightful option for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a side dish for a gathering, this pasta salad is sure to impress. Get ready to savor each refreshing bite and elevate your dining experience with this simple yet delicious recipe.
