pasta salad recipe

Classic Pasta Salad Recipe

Ingredients:

• Pasta: 12 oz rotini, fusilli, or bow tie pasta
• Vegetables:
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
  • 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
• Cheese: 1 cup mozzarella balls or cubed mozzarella
• Protein: 1/2 cup salami or pepperoni, diced (optional)
• Herbs: 1/4 cup fresh parsley or basil, chopped

Dressing:

• 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
• 3/4 cup olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:
   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions.
   • Drain the pasta and rinse with cold water to cool. Set aside.
2. Prepare the Dressing:
   • In a small bowl or jar, combine the red wine vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Whisk or shake until well combined.
3. Combine Ingredients:
   • In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red and yellow bell peppers, red onion, black olives, mozzarella, and optional salami or pepperoni.
4. Mix in the Dressing:
   • Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss to coat evenly.
5. Chill and Serve:
   • Cover and refrigerate the pasta salad for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
   • Before serving, give the salad a good toss and sprinkle with fresh parsley or basil.

Tips:

• Feel free to customize the salad by adding other favorite ingredients such as artichoke hearts, sun-dried tomatoes, or feta cheese.
• For a healthier option, use whole wheat pasta and add more fresh vegetables.
• This salad can be made a day in advance, making it perfect for picnics or potlucks.

Enjoy your delicious and vibrant pasta salad!