Pasta Salad Recipe: A Simple and Delicious Summer Meal
Pasta salad is a versatile and refreshing dish, perfect for a light lunch, a potluck contribution, or a side dish for a barbecue. This recipe provides a simple yet delicious base that you can easily customize to your liking. Let's dive into creating a fantastic pasta salad!
Ingredients:
This recipe provides a foundational base; feel free to adjust quantities based on your needs and preferences.
- Pasta: 1 pound (450g) of your favorite pasta shape. Rotini, farfalle (bowties), or penne work well. Consider using whole wheat pasta for added fiber.
- Vegetables: 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/2 cup cucumber, diced; 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced; 1/2 cup bell pepper (any color), diced. Feel free to add other veggies like carrots, zucchini, or olives!
- Protein (optional): 1 cup cooked chicken, grilled shrimp, chickpeas, or white beans. Adding protein makes this a more substantial meal.
- Dressing: 1/4 cup olive oil, 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, salt and pepper to taste. This is a simple vinaigrette; you can easily experiment with different dressings!
- Cheese (optional): 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese or shredded mozzarella. Adds a salty and creamy element.
Instructions:
Follow these steps for a perfect pasta salad every time:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking. Let it cool completely.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
While the pasta is cooking, prepare the vegetables. Wash, chop, and dice them as indicated in the ingredients list.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, oregano, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasonings to your taste. You could even add a touch of honey or maple syrup for sweetness.
Step 4: Combine Everything
In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, prepared vegetables, and any protein or cheese you're using. Pour the dressing over the mixture and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This also helps the pasta salad to cool completely. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Tips and Variations:
- Add herbs: Fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or dill add a burst of flavor.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a dollop of mayonnaise or Greek yogurt for a creamier dressing.
- Get creative with cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as parmesan, goat cheese, or provolone.
- Meal prep friendly: This pasta salad is perfect for meal prepping. Make a large batch and enjoy it throughout the week.
This simple pasta salad recipe offers a fantastic base for your culinary creativity. Remember to adjust it to your own taste preferences and dietary needs. Enjoy!
