Fresh and Flavorful Pasta Salad with a Zesty Dressing – Perfect for Summer Gatherings

Fresh and Flavorful Pasta Salad with a Zesty Dressing – Perfect for Summer Gatherings

If you’re looking for a light, refreshing, and flavorful dish for your next summer gathering, this pasta salad is exactly what you need! It’s packed with fresh vegetables, tossed with a tangy homemade dressing, and served chilled—making it the perfect side dish for BBQs, picnics, or any casual get-together. Read on to learn how to make this delightful salad that’s both quick and delicious!

Ingredients:

For the Salad:

  • 8 oz of your favorite pasta (spaghetti, rotini, or penne work great)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup black olives, pitted and sliced
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)

For the Dressing:

  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 tbsp apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar
  • 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tbsp honey or agave syrup
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional)
  • 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning or fresh herbs like basil or oregano

Instructions:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package directions (usually 8-10 minutes).
  2. Once the pasta is done, drain it and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set the pasta aside to cool completely.

Step 2: Prep the Vegetables

  1. While the pasta is cooling, slice the cherry tomatoes in half, dice the cucumber, and finely chop the red onion.
  2. Slice the black olives and set them aside along with your other veggies.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, vinegar, Dijon mustard, and honey until smooth.
  2. Season the dressing with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and dried Italian seasoning. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

Step 4: Combine the Salad

  1. In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and black olives.
  2. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss everything well to ensure that the pasta and veggies are evenly coated.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

  1. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to combine.
  2. Before serving, sprinkle with fresh parsley or basil for an extra pop of color and flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Pasta Salad:

  • Vibrant and Colorful: The fresh veggies like tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions make the salad visually appealing and full of textures.
  • Quick and Easy: With just a few ingredients and steps, this salad is ready in no time—perfect for busy days or last-minute gatherings.
  • Perfect for Make-Ahead: This pasta salad stores beautifully in the fridge, so you can make it the day before your event and let the flavors deepen overnight.
  • Customizable: Add your favorite ingredients like feta cheese, roasted vegetables, or grilled chicken to turn this salad into a complete meal.

Pro Tips:

  • Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free pasta if you need to make the salad suitable for gluten-sensitive guests.
  • Make It Creamier: If you prefer a creamier texture, add a tablespoon of Greek yogurt or mayonnaise to the dressing for extra richness.
  • Add More Protein: To make the salad a meal on its own, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas for some plant-based protein.

Why This Salad Is a Hit:

This pasta salad is perfect for anyone looking for a light, flavorful dish that’s both satisfying and healthy. It’s great for a casual get-together, an outdoor picnic, or as a side dish at a BBQ. The combination of fresh vegetables, pasta, and a tangy dressing makes it an irresistible option for all kinds of occasions.

Whether you’re a pasta lover or just craving a fresh, delicious side, this pasta salad is sure to impress. Don’t forget to serve it chilled, and enjoy a burst of flavors in every bite!

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