Tangy and Refreshing Pasta Salad with Fresh Veggies – The Ultimate Side Dish

Tangy and Refreshing Pasta Salad with Fresh Veggies – The Ultimate Side Dish

Looking for a light, delicious, and vibrant side dish for your next gathering? This pasta salad, loaded with fresh vegetables and dressed in a tangy vinaigrette, is the perfect addition to any meal. With a combination of crispy cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and savory olives, this dish will undoubtedly steal the spotlight at your next BBQ or picnic. Let’s dive into how you can make this refreshing pasta salad in just a few easy steps!

Ingredients:

For the Pasta Salad:

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

For the Dressing:

  • 1/4 cup olive oil (extra virgin for best taste)
  • 3 tbsp vinegar (red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar)
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tsp honey or maple syrup (optional for a touch of sweetness)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional)
  • 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of fresh basil and oregano)

Directions:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package directions (usually about 8-10 minutes for al dente).
  2. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Let it cool completely in a colander.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

  1. While the pasta is cooling, slice the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber, and chop the red onion into small pieces.
  2. Slice the black olives and set them aside.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

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

Step 4: Combine the Salad

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and black olives.
  2. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to ensure everything is evenly coated.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

  1. Cover the salad with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
  2. Before serving, sprinkle with fresh parsley or basil for a burst of color and flavor.

Why This Pasta Salad Is a Winner:

  • Fresh and Flavorful: With vibrant veggies like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and olives, each bite is refreshing and filled with flavor.
  • Quick and Easy: This recipe requires minimal ingredients and prep time, making it a perfect choice when you’re short on time.
  • Perfect for Meal Prep: This pasta salad can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge, making it an ideal make-ahead dish.
  • Versatile: Feel free to add in other veggies or proteins like grilled chicken, feta cheese, or chickpeas for variety.

Tips for the Best Pasta Salad:

  • Use Whole Wheat Pasta: For a healthier twist, try using whole wheat pasta instead of regular pasta for added fiber.
  • Customize the Dressing: If you like a creamier dressing, you can add a tablespoon of Greek yogurt or mayonnaise for extra richness.
  • Add More Protein: Want to turn this into a meal? Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or even beans for a protein-packed version.

Why It’s Perfect for Your Next Gathering:

This pasta salad combines the best of both worlds—light, refreshing ingredients with a satisfying texture. It’s the ideal side dish to complement grilled meats, sandwiches, or even as a stand-alone vegetarian dish. Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ or looking for a simple yet delicious meal to prep for the week, this pasta salad will be the highlight of the meal.

Make sure to give this pasta salad a try and enjoy a refreshing burst of flavors with every bite. It’s the perfect dish to beat the heat and impress your guests!

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