Whether you’re preparing for a backyard barbecue, a family picnic, or simply looking for a refreshing dish to enjoy on a warm evening, this Garden Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing is a flavorful and satisfying option. Packed with vibrant vegetables, tender pasta, and a tangy homemade dressing, this recipe is a perfect marriage of fresh ingredients and classic Italian flavors.
**Garden Pasta Salad Italian Dressing**
**Ingredients:**
– 8 oz fusilli pasta
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup cucumber, diced
– 1/2 cup red bell pepper, sliced
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup black olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
– 1/3 cup olive oil
– 3 tbsp red wine vinegar
– 1 garlic clove, minced
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– 1/2 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
**Instructions:**
1. **Cook the Pasta:** In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the fusilli pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse the pasta under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
2. **Prepare the Vegetables:** In a large mixing bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, black olives, and torn basil leaves. Toss gently to mix the vegetables evenly.
3. **Make the Dressing:** In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, dried oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined.
4. **Combine Everything:** Add the cooked pasta to the bowl of mixed vegetables. Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetables. Toss everything together until the pasta and vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing.
5. **Chill and Serve:** Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the pasta salad for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together. Before serving, give the salad a final toss and taste for seasoning, adjusting with more salt and pepper if needed.
6. **Garnish and Enjoy:** Serve the Garden Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing chilled, garnished with extra fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. This salad is a light and refreshing dish that pairs perfectly with grilled proteins or stands deliciously on its own as a satisfying meal.
Creating this Garden Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing is a wonderful way to celebrate the abundance of summer produce and enjoy a meal that bursts with colors and flavors. Make a big batch to share with friends and family at your next gathering, or simply whip up a portion for a delightful midweek meal. This recipe is versatile, customizable, and guaranteed to become a favorite in your cooking repertoire.
