Description
This Classic Pasta Salad is a delicious, refreshing dish that’s perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a side to any meal. It’s made with colorful vegetables, zesty dressing, and your favorite pasta, making it a go-to for warm weather gatherings or any time you need a quick, tasty salad!
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz pasta (such as rotini, penne, or bow tie)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup bell pepper (red, yellow, or green), diced
- 1/4 cup black olives, sliced (optional)
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
For the Dressing
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool the pasta down.
- Prepare the vegetables: While the pasta is cooling, chop the vegetables (tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, bell pepper, and olives, if using).
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Combine: In a large bowl, add the cooled pasta, vegetables, and crumbled feta cheese (if using). Pour the dressing over the pasta and toss until everything is well coated.
- Chill and serve: Let the salad chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and enhances the taste!
Notes
- You can swap in other veggies based on your preference, such as spinach, arugula, or broccoli.
- For a protein boost, add grilled chicken or chickpeas.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- For a creamier version, add a few tablespoons of mayonnaise or Greek yogurt to the dressing.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Salad, Side Dish, Picnic Food
- Method: Chilled
- Cuisine: Mediterranean, American
Keywords: Pasta salad, vegetable pasta salad, Mediterranean pasta salad, summer salad, picnic salad, side dish, cold pasta salad