Freezer Pasta Salad
Whether you’re meal prepping for the week ahead or looking for a convenient side dish for a potluck, this Freezer Pasta Salad is a versatile recipe that is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Packed with colorful veggies, flavorful dressing, and the comfort of pasta, this make-ahead dish is perfect for busy days when you want a delicious and satisfying meal ready to go. The best part? You can easily customize this recipe with your favorite veggies and dressing to suit your taste preferences. Let’s dive into how to make this delicious Freezer Pasta Salad.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cucumber, diced
– 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
– 1 bell pepper (any color), diced
– 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
– 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Dressing:
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp honey
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Allow it to cool completely.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, bell pepper, black olives, feta cheese, and parsley. Mix well to combine.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper until well blended.
4. Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetables. Toss gently to ensure everything is coated evenly.
5. Divide the pasta salad into individual portions, suitable for your needs. You can use meal prep containers or freezer-safe bags for storage.
6. Label each portion with the date and contents before placing them in the freezer.
7. To serve, simply thaw a portion in the refrigerator overnight or on the counter for a few hours. Give it a good mix before enjoying.
This Freezer Pasta Salad is perfect for those days when you need a quick and delicious meal on hand. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility – feel free to add or substitute any veggies you prefer. The vibrant colors and flavors make this salad not only a delight to eat but also a feast for the eyes. Whether you enjoy it as a light lunch or a side dish at a barbecue, this make-ahead pasta salad is a time-saving solution for busy days. So go ahead, whip up a batch of this Freezer Pasta Salad and have a delicious meal ready whenever you need it.