Classic Pasta Salad
A comforting and fresh pasta salad that's perfect for picnics, potlucks, and family gatherings. This easy recipe combines colorful vegetables and a flavorful dressing for a delightful dish.
Ingredients
Pasta and Vegetables
- 12 ounces short pasta (rotini, bowties, or penne) holds dressing beautifully.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved sweet and juicy pops of color.
- 1 cucumber, diced cool crunch that makes the salad refreshing.
- 1 red bell pepper, diced adds sweetness and a festive hue.
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced sharpness balanced by soaking in cold water if desired.
- 1 cup black olives, sliced salty depth; substitute with capers for brinier note.
- 1 cup cubed mozzarella or feta creamy finish; use vegan cheese or nutritional yeast for dairy-free.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley aromatic herb.
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil aromatic herb.
Dressing
- 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Preparation
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions.
- Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and cool the pasta.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, honey, oregano, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust for tang or sweetness.
Mixing
- Add the cooled pasta to the dressing and toss to coat.
- Fold in the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, olives, herbs, and cheese. Toss gently to combine.
Chilling and Serving
- Chill for at least 20-30 minutes to let flavors marry, or serve immediately if pressed for time.
- Before serving, give it one final toss and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
Notes
For a richer variation, consider adding cooked chicken, tuna, or chickpeas; for creaminess, fold in a couple of tablespoons of mayonnaise or Greek yogurt. Encourage readers to personalize—this is a canvas, not a rulebook.