Indulge in a burst of vibrant colors and fresh flavors with our Veggie-Packed Pasta Salad. This delightful dish combines al dente pasta with a medley of fresh vegetables, creating a nutritious and satisfying meal that's perfect for any occasion. Whether you're hosting a summer barbecue or looking for a quick and healthy lunch option, this pasta salad will become a staple in your culinary repertoire.
.png)
Preparation and Cooking Times
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings and Serving Size
- Servings: 6
- Serving Size: 1 cup
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 7g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 250mg
Ingredients
- 250g (8.8oz) pasta (fusilli, penne, or your choice)
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 red onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup black olives, sliced
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Dressing:
- 60ml (1/4 cup) olive oil
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Method of Preparation
- 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 under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
- While the pasta is cooking, dice the red and yellow bell peppers, cucumber, and red onion. Halve the cherry tomatoes and slice the black olives.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, diced vegetables, cherry tomatoes, sliced olives, and crumbled feta cheese. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is evenly coated.
- Gently fold in the chopped basil and parsley. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
- Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled.
Tips for Culinary Success
- Use fresh, high-quality vegetables for the best flavor and texture.
- For added protein, consider adding grilled chicken, chickpeas, or tofu.
- This salad can be made a day ahead. The flavors will only improve as they mingle in the fridge.
- If you prefer a vegan version, simply omit the feta cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Q: Can I use a different type of pasta? A: Yes, any short pasta shape like rotini, farfalle, or macaroni will work well.
- Q: How long can I store this pasta salad? A: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Q: Can I add other vegetables to this salad? A: Absolutely! Feel free to add or substitute vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or even spinach.
Elevate your meals with our Veggie-Packed Pasta Salad, a perfect blend of fresh vegetables and flavorful pasta. This versatile and nutritious dish is ideal for any occasion, providing a delightful combination of textures and tastes. Enjoy this refreshing salad that celebrates the best of seasonal produce with every bite.