Pasta salad is a quintessential dish for picnics, barbecues, and potlucks, offering a medley of flavors and textures that please every palate. This recipe for The Best Pasta Salad combines vibrant vegetables, savory meats, and a tangy dressing to create a dish that is as delicious as it is versatile. Whether served as a side dish or a standalone meal, this pasta salad is sure to become a favorite in your repertoire.
The Best Pasta Salad recipe is not only delicious but also highly customizable. You can add or substitute ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Consider adding grilled chicken, salami, or shrimp for a heartier version, or swap feta cheese for mozzarella or Parmesan for a different flavor profile.
Whether you're planning a summer picnic, a backyard barbecue, or a simple weekday lunch, The Best Pasta Salad is a crowd-pleasing dish that brings together the freshness of vegetables, the creaminess of cheese, and the tanginess of a homemade dressing. Prepare this pasta salad ahead of time to save on last-minute preparation and enjoy the compliments as your guests savor each flavorful bite!!
INGREDIENTS:
For the salad:
- 12 oz (about 340g) pasta of your choice (such as fusilli, rotini, or penne)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup yellow bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
For the dressing:
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper, to taste
INSTRUCTIONS:
