When the weather warms up and you want a satisfying yet refreshing dish for any gathering, a savoury pasta salad is always a crowd-pleaser. Packed with vibrant colors and flavors, this recipe is a delightful combination of pasta, fresh vegetables, and a tangy dressing that will have everyone coming back for more. Whether you’re hosting a picnic, a potluck, or simply looking for a tasty side dish, this Savoury Pasta Salad will surely hit the spot.
**Savoury Pasta Salad**
**Ingredients:**
– 8 oz of pasta of your choice (penne, fusilli, or bowtie work well)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 medium cucumber, diced
– 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
– 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
– 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
**For the dressing:**
– 1/3 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 cool the pasta down. Transfer the pasta to a large salad bowl.
2. Add the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, black olives, feta cheese, and parsley to the bowl with the pasta.
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 pasta and vegetables in the salad bowl. Gently toss everything together until the dressing evenly coats all the ingredients.
5. Cover the salad bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. Once chilled, give the pasta salad a final toss before serving. Garnish with additional fresh parsley if desired.
7. Enjoy this Savoury Pasta Salad as a delicious side dish or a light meal on its own. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as an easy weekday lunch option.
Prepare this vibrant and flavorful Savoury Pasta Salad for your next gathering and watch it disappear in no time. The combination of textures and tastes in this dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Feel free to customize the ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand. It’s a versatile recipe that can easily be adapted to suit your tastes. Bon appétit!
