
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
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package directions (usually 8-10 minutes).
- 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
- While the pasta is cooling, slice the cherry tomatoes in half, dice the cucumber, and finely chop the red onion.
- Slice the black olives and set them aside along with your other veggies.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, vinegar, Dijon mustard, and honey until smooth.
- 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
- In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and black olives.
- 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
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to combine.
- 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!