Pasta Salad
Who doesn’t love a fresh and flavorful pasta salad? This dish is perfect for picnics, potlucks, or just a quick and easy meal at home. Loaded with delicious ingredients and tossed in a tangy dressing, this pasta salad is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound pasta, cooked and cooled
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, chopped
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, black olives, feta cheese, and basil.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the dressing ingredients (olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, honey, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper).
- Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss to combine.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Nutrition Information:
- Calories: 350
- Carbs: 45g
- Protein: 8g
- Fat: 15g
- Fiber: 3g
Popular questions:
- Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
- A: Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer for this salad.
- Q: How long will this pasta salad last in the refrigerator?
- A: This pasta salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Q: Can I omit the feta cheese for a dairy-free option?
- A: Yes, you can omit the feta cheese or replace it with a dairy-free alternative.
Helpful tips:
- Experiment with adding different vegetables like bell peppers or artichoke hearts for extra flavor.
- Try adding grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier protein-packed version of this salad.
Expert Secrets:
- For best results, toss the pasta with the dressing while it’s still warm to help it absorb the flavors better.
- Adjust the amount of dressing to your preference – some people like a lightly dressed salad while others prefer a more saucy version.