In the warm summer months, a refreshing Lite Pasta Salad is the perfect dish to enjoy. Packed with vibrant colors and fresh flavors, this salad is easy to make and light on the stomach, making it an ideal option for a quick lunch or a side dish at your next gathering.
### Lite Pasta Salad
**Ingredients:**
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cucumber, diced
– 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup black olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
**For the Dressing:**
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
– 1 garlic clove, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. **Cook the Pasta:** In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, rinse under cold water, and set aside.
2. **Prepare the Vegetables:** While the pasta is cooking, prepare the vegetables. Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber, thinly slice the red onion, and chop the parsley. Place them all in a large salad bowl.
3. **Make the Dressing:** In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
4. **Assemble the Salad:** Add the cooked pasta to the bowl of vegetables. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine, ensuring everything is evenly coated.
5. **Add the Finishing Touches:** Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese and sliced black olives over the salad. Give it one final toss to incorporate all the ingredients.
6. **Chill and Serve:** Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Before serving, give it a quick toss, garnish with additional parsley if desired, and enjoy!
**Nutritional Information:** This Lite Pasta Salad is not only delicious but also healthy, providing a mix of essential nutrients. With the freshness of vegetables and the lightness of the dressing, this salad is perfect for those looking for a nutritious meal option.
Next time you’re looking for a delightful dish that’s both satisfying and guilt-free, give this Lite Pasta Salad a try. It’s simple to make, bursting with flavors, and sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Enjoy the taste of summer in every bite!
