With warmer weather on the horizon, it’s the perfect time to add some refreshing and flavorful dishes to your meal rotation. Pasta salads are versatile, delicious, and ideal for picnics, barbecues, or as a light lunch option. They come in various styles and flavors, allowing you to get creative with your ingredients. In this recipe, we’ll show you how to make a classic pasta salad that is sure to become a staple in your summer menu. Packed with colorful veggies, savory proteins, and a zesty dressing, this dish is both satisfying and nutritious.
**Pasta Salads**
**Ingredients:**
– 8 ounces pasta of your choice
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cucumber, diced
– 1 bell pepper, chopped
– 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
– 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. **Cook the Pasta:**
– Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
– Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
– Drain the pasta and rinse it with cold water to stop the cooking process.
– Transfer the pasta to a large mixing bowl.
2. **Prepare the Ingredients:**
– Add the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, black olives, feta cheese, and fresh basil to the bowl with the pasta.
– Gently toss the ingredients together to combine.
3. **Make the Dressing:**
– In a small bowl, whisk together:
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
4. **Combine and Chill:**
– Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
– Season with additional salt and pepper, if needed.
– Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. **Serve and Enjoy:**
– Before serving, give the pasta salad a final toss to refresh the flavors.
– Garnish with extra basil leaves for a pop of color.
– Enjoy your delicious and vibrant pasta salad as a side dish or a light main course!
This classic pasta salad is a great way to enjoy fresh produce and wholesome ingredients in a satisfying and easy-to-make dish. Feel free to customize this recipe by adding grilled chicken, chickpeas, or your favorite veggies to make it your own. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or simply looking for a flavorful meal, this pasta salad is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. So, whip up a batch, embrace the sunny days, and savor the delicious flavors of this delightful dish.
