On a hot summer day when turning on the stove seems like an unbearable task, a refreshing cold pasta dish can be a savior. Fast, easy, and bursting with flavors, our Cold Pasta recipe is the perfect solution for a quick and light meal that doesn’t compromise on taste. This dish combines colorful vegetables, al dente pasta, and a zesty dressing to create a delightful ensemble that will satisfy your family or guests. Let’s dive into the details of this simple yet delicious recipe.
Fast Easy Cold Pasta
Ingredients:
– 1 pound of your favorite pasta (such as fusilli, penne, or rotini)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cucumber, diced
– 1 bell pepper, chopped
– 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup black olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
– 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
For the dressing:
– 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it is al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Transfer the pasta to a large mixing bowl.
2. In the same mixing bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, black olives, and torn basil leaves. Toss gently to mix all the ingredients evenly.
3. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined.
4. Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetables in the large mixing bowl. Toss everything together until the pasta and vegetables are coated evenly with the dressing.
5. Add the crumbled feta cheese on top of the pasta salad and gently mix it in to distribute it throughout the dish.
6. Refrigerate the Cold Pasta for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together and the dish to chill. You can also make this pasta salad ahead of time and let it marinate in the fridge for a few hours for even more flavor.
7. Serve the Cold Pasta chilled in individual bowls or on a large platter, garnished with extra basil leaves or a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper for an extra touch of freshness.
This Fast Easy Cold Pasta recipe is not only a quick fix for a busy day but also a versatile dish that can be customized to your liking. Feel free to add grilled chicken, shrimp, or extra vegetables to make it your own. The vibrant colors and flavors of this pasta salad make it a delightful addition to picnics, potlucks, or simply as a refreshing meal at home. Enjoy the simplicity and deliciousness of this recipe that will surely become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.
