Summer Pasta Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that captures the essence of the season with its colorful mix of fresh vegetables and tender pasta, all tossed in a light and tangy dressing. This salad is perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a side dish for any summer meal. The combination of juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, sweet bell peppers, and fragrant basil creates a delightful medley of flavors and textures. The simple yet flavorful dressing ties everything together, making this salad a satisfying and easy-to-make option for enjoying the bounty of summer produce.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces rotini or fusilli pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 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 under cold water to cool the pasta, then set aside.
- Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Combine the ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, black olives, feta cheese, and fresh basil.
- Toss the salad: Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss gently until all the ingredients are evenly coated.
- Chill and serve: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Enjoy your Summer Pasta Salad as a refreshing and colorful dish that celebrates the fresh flavors of the season, perfect for any summer gathering or meal.
