Looking for a light and refreshing meal that’s perfect for picnics, lunch, or even as a side to grilled dishes? Our Vegetable Pasta Salad is just what you need! Packed with colorful veggies, flavorful herbs, and a zesty dressing, this dish is a celebration of freshness and taste. This recipe is not only easy to make but also versatile, allowing you to customize it with your favorite vegetables and herbs. Let’s dive in and create a dish that is as delicious as it is eye-catching!
Recipe of Vegetable Pasta Salad
Ingredients:
– 8 ounces pasta (your choice)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
– 1 small cucumber, diced
– 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup black olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
For the dressing:
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 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. Set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, red and yellow bell peppers, cucumber, red onion, black olives, basil, and parsley. Toss gently to mix the ingredients evenly.
3. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.
4. Pour the dressing over the vegetable mixture and toss to coat everything with the dressing.
5. Add the cooked pasta to the vegetables and gently toss everything together until the pasta is coated with the dressing and the vegetables are evenly distributed.
6. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
7. Before serving, give the salad a final toss and adjust the seasoning if needed with more salt, pepper, or a splash of vinegar.
8. Serve the vegetable pasta salad chilled or at room temperature, garnished with extra fresh herbs if desired.
Enjoy your delicious and colorful Vegetable Pasta Salad as a wholesome meal on its own or as a delightful side dish alongside grilled chicken, fish, or tofu. The vibrant flavors and crunchy textures in every bite make this salad a delight for the senses. Feel free to experiment with different vegetables or herbs to make it your own signature dish. The best part is, this salad can be made in advance, making it a convenient option for busy days or meal prepping for the week. A classic favorite that never fails to impress, this Vegetable Pasta Salad is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection!
