Continental Pasta Salad

There’s something special about a pasta salad that captures the flavors of a cozy home kitchen. One delightful dish that brings together the essence of comfort and elegance is the Continental Pasta Salad. Bursting with colorful veggies, savory meats, and a zesty dressing, this salad is a symphony of flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing. Perfect for a light lunch, a cozy picnic, or a side dish for a gathering, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your cooking repertoire.

**Continental Pasta Salad**

**Ingredients:**

– 8 ounces of bowtie pasta
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1/4 cup sliced black olives
– 1/4 cup diced red onion
– 1/2 cup cubed salami
– 1/2 cup cubed mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped basil

**Dressing:**
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste

**Instructions:**

1. Cook the bowtie pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.

2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper to make the dressing. Adjust the seasoning to your taste preference.

3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, black olives, red onion, salami, mozzarella cheese, and basil.

4. Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and gently toss everything together until well combined and evenly coated with the dressing.

5. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the pasta salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

6. When ready to serve, give the salad a final toss to refresh the flavors. You can adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

7. Garnish with additional fresh basil before serving to add a pop of color and herbal aroma.

This Continental Pasta Salad is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with grilled chicken or fish for a heartier meal. It’s also a great dish to prepare in advance for busy weeknights or a leisurely weekend gathering. The combination of fresh vegetables, flavorful meats, and a tangy dressing makes it a fulfilling and refreshing option for any occasion. Try this recipe and let its flavors transport you to a charming European cafe right in your own home. Enjoy the simplicity and elegance of this Continental Pasta Salad!