Fast Easy Pasta Salad

In the hustle and bustle of daily life, sometimes all we need is a quick and delicious meal solution that doesn’t skimp on flavor. That’s where this Fast Easy Pasta Salad recipe comes in handy. Whether you’re looking for a side dish for a family barbecue, a light lunch option, or a perfect meal prep idea for the week ahead, this pasta salad has got you covered. Packed with vibrant vegetables, hearty pasta, and a zesty dressing, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that can be whipped up in no time.

Fast Easy Pasta Salad

Ingredients:
– 8 oz rotini pasta
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cucumber, diced
– 1 bell pepper, diced
– 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
– 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
– 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Dressing:
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, black olives, feta cheese, and parsley.
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 dressing over the vegetable mixture and toss gently to coat.
5. Add the cooked and cooled pasta to the bowl with the vegetables and dressing. Gently toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. You can add more salt, pepper, or a drizzle of olive oil as desired.
7. Chill the pasta salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
8. Before serving, give the salad a final stir and garnish with an extra sprinkle of fresh parsley or feta cheese if desired.

This Fast Easy Pasta Salad is not only a quick and simple dish to put together, but it’s also versatile. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or add protein like grilled chicken or chickpeas to make it a complete meal. The combination of tangy feta, crisp vegetables, and flavorful dressing creates a delightful medley of tastes and textures in every bite. Prepare a batch of this pasta salad for your next gathering, picnic, or simply to have a satisfying meal ready to enjoy throughout the week. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.