By threespoonrecipe 
This Pasta Salad is the perfect combination of fresh, crunchy vegetables, tender pasta, and a tangy homemade dressing. It’s a versatile dish that can be served as a side for barbecues, picnics, or even as a light main course. Packed with bold flavors, colorful ingredients, and a refreshing zing, this salad is a crowd-pleaser for any occasion!
Ingredients:
For the Salad:
- 12 oz pasta (rotini, penne, or farfalle)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- ½ cup red bell pepper, chopped
- ½ cup black olives, sliced
- ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
- ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled (or mozzarella cubes)
- ¼ cup fresh parsley or basil, chopped
For the Dressing:
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar (or lemon juice)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey (optional, for balance)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta quickly.
2. Prepare the Dressing:
- In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, garlic, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
- Shake or whisk until fully combined.
3. Assemble the Salad:
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, olives, and red onion.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat evenly.
- Gently fold in the feta cheese and fresh parsley or basil.
4. Chill and Serve:
- Let the pasta salad sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve cold or at room temperature, garnished with extra herbs or cheese if desired.
Variations & Additions:
✅ Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas.
✅ More Crunch: Toss in sunflower seeds or toasted nuts.
✅ Creamy Version: Mix in a spoonful of Greek yogurt or mayo.
This Pasta Salad is vibrant, fresh, and bursting with flavor—perfect for any meal, any time of year! 🍅🥒🍋