This delightful pasta salad is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal, whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a side dish for a barbecue, or a simple dinner option. Our Easy Pasta Salad with Mayonnaise is a versatile recipe that you can customize to your liking with your favorite vegetables and herbs. The creamy mayo dressing adds a rich flavor that complements the freshness of the vegetables and the texture of the pasta. Let’s get started on creating this delicious dish!
**Ingredients:**
– 2 cups pasta (choose your favorite shape)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cucumber, diced
– 1 bell pepper, chopped
– 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh herbs like parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse the pasta under cold water to stop the cooking process. Transfer the pasta to a large mixing bowl.
2. Add the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, and red onion to the bowl with the pasta. Toss gently to combine the ingredients.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, white wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper until the dressing is smooth and well combined.
4. Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetables. Use a large spoon or spatula to gently mix everything together until the pasta and vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing.
5. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the pasta salad for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. Before serving, give the pasta salad a final toss to make sure the dressing is distributed evenly. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
7. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a pop of color and an extra burst of flavor.
Enjoy this Easy Pasta Salad with Mayonnaise as a delightful dish on its own or as a side to your favorite grilled meats or seafood. Its creamy texture and refreshing ingredients make it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. And the best part? It’s so easy to customize with your preferred veggies or add-ins to suit your taste preferences. Say goodbye to boring salads and hello to a tasty and satisfying pasta dish that will become a staple in your recipe collection.
