Giada De Laurentiis Pasta Salad

Pasta salads are a perfect dish for easy lunches, potlucks, or even just a light dinner on a warm evening. This Giada De Laurentiis Pasta Salad recipe combines flavorful ingredients with a zesty dressing that will leave your taste buds singing. With a mix of colorful veggies, tender pasta, and a delicious dressing, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite. Let’s dive in and create this scrumptious dish!

Ingredients:
– 1 pound fusilli pasta
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cucumber, diced
– 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped

For the dressing:
– 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. Begin by cooking the fusilli 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, red onion, black olives, and fresh basil to the bowl with the cooked pasta. Toss everything together gently to combine.

3. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.

4. Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetable mixture in the large bowl. Gently toss everything together until the dressing evenly coats the ingredients.

5. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill the pasta salad in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.

6. Once chilled, give the pasta salad a final toss before serving. You can garnish with additional fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and freshness.

Enjoy this delightful Giada De Laurentiis Pasta Salad as a satisfying meal on its own or as a side dish alongside grilled chicken or fish. The combination of flavors in this salad is sure to impress your family and friends at your next gathering. This recipe is versatile, so feel free to customize it by adding your favorite veggies or protein options. Whether you’re enjoying it at a picnic, barbecue, or simply at home, this pasta salad will be a hit every time!