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! 🍅🥒🍋

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