Pasta Salad that you can whip up quickly

This vibrant pasta salad is a perfect dish for gatherings, picnics, or as a side for your meals. It’s refreshing, packed with colorful vegetables, and drizzled with a tangy dressing that brings all the flavors together. Customize it with your favorite ingredients to make it your own!

Ingredients

  • 8 ounces pasta (e.g., rotini, fusilli, or penne)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup cucumber, diced
  • 1 bell pepper (red, yellow, or green), diced
  • 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
  • 1 cup mozzarella balls (bocconcini) or cubed mozzarella
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Dressing:

  • 1/3 cup olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
  2. Prepare the Vegetables: While the pasta is cooking, chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, and olives. Set aside.
  3. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until well combined.
  4. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chopped vegetables, mozzarella, and parsley. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.
  5. Season and Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper, if needed. Serve immediately or refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Enjoy your whipped-up pasta salad!


Feel free to customize the ingredients to suit your taste!

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