Description
A vibrant and refreshing pasta salad with fresh vegetables, creamy dressing, and zesty flavors, perfect for summer gatherings.
Ingredients
- Pasta (fusilli, penne, or rotini)
- Cherry Tomatoes
- Cucumber
- Bell Peppers (red, yellow, or orange)
- Red Onion
- Fresh Herbs (Basil and Parsley)
- Olive Oil
- Lemon Juice
- Garlic
- Salt
- Freshly Cracked Pepper
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Afterward, drain it in a colander and rinse under cold water to halt cooking.
- Chop the veggies: While the pasta cools, chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell peppers, and red onion into bite-sized pieces.
- Prepare the dressing: In a mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Combine everything: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with the chopped vegetables and fresh herbs.
- Dress it up: Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently until evenly coated. Serve immediately or chill for 30 minutes to let flavors meld.
- Serve: Garnish with a sprig of fresh basil and serve in a colorful bowl.
Notes
This salad can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to three days. Dress just before serving for optimal freshness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: pasta salad, summer dish, vegan salad, side dish, colorful salad