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–+ servings
pasta

Customizable Pasta Salad

This vibrant pasta salad is bursting with fresh flavors and can be adapted to fit any taste! It’s easy to make and ideal for potlucks, picnics, or a quick lunch. The best part? You can add your favorite vegetables, proteins like grilled chicken or chickpeas, or tweak the dressing for a personalized touch. Serve it as a side dish or a light main course, and enjoy its Italian-inspired charm.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Course Main, Side Dish
Cuisine American, Italian
Servings 6 Servings
Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Large pot
  • 1 Colander
  • 1 Large mixing bowl
  • 1 Small bowl or jar (for dressing)
  • 1 Whisk or small fork (for dressing)
  • 1 Cutting board
  • 1 Knife

Ingredients
  

For the Salad:

  • 3 cups Rotini pasta (or any short pasta)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1 cup cucumber diced
  • 1 cup bell peppers (red, yellow, or green) diced
  • ½ cup red onion finely chopped
  • ½ cup black olives sliced
  • ½ cup feta cheese crumbled
  • ¼ cup fresh basil or parsley chopped

For the Dressing:

  • ¼ cup olive oil
  • 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 clove garlic minced
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • ½ tsp dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions
 

  • 1. Cook the Pasta:
    Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes.
    Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down and prevent sticking. Set aside.
    pasta cook
  • Prepare the Vegetables:
    While the pasta cooks, chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and bell peppers. Finely chop the red onion.
    Slice the black olives and crumble the feta cheese if it isn’t already prepared.Chop the fresh basil or parsley.
    veggies
  • Make the Dressing:
    In a small bowl or jar, combine olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
    Whisk or shake until all ingredients are well-blended.
    dijon
  • Assemble the Salad:
    In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta, chopped vegetables, olives, feta cheese, and fresh herbs.
    Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
    pasta salad
  • Chill and Serve:
    Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
    Serve chilled, garnished with extra herbs or a sprinkle of feta, if desired.
    pasta salad meal

Video

Notes

  • Pasta Options: Choose any short pasta you like, such as fusilli, penne, or farfalle, to switch things up.
  • Add Protein: Grilled chicken, chickpeas, or even shrimp can be added for a heartier version.
  • Extra Crunch: Toss in sunflower seeds or pine nuts for added texture.
  • Dressing Variations: Substitute balsamic vinegar or white wine vinegar for a different flavor profile. A touch of honey can add sweetness if preferred.

Nutrition

Calories: 320kcal
Keyword Pasta, Pasta Salad, Quick Recipe, Recipe for Pasta
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