Are you craving a refreshing dish that perfectly balances flavor and nutrition? Look no further than the classic pasta salad. Versatile, easy to make, and bursting with vibrant colors and flavors, a well-crafted pasta salad can steal the spotlight at any meal, from picnics to potlucks and everything in between. Let's explore a delightful pasta salad recipe that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more.
### Ingredients:
- 8 ounces (225g) of your favorite pasta (such as rotini, fusilli, or penne)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 English cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
### For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 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 according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Transfer the pasta to a large mixing bowl.
2. **Prepare the Vegetables:** While the pasta is cooking, prepare the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, black olives, and basil. Add them to the bowl with the cooked pasta.
3. **Make the Dressing:** In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.
4. **Combine and Toss:** Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetables in the mixing bowl. Gently toss everything together until the pasta and vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing.
5. **Add the Finishing Touches:** Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the salad and toss lightly to incorporate.
6. **Chill and Serve:** Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the pasta salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Before serving, give the salad a final toss and garnish with additional fresh basil leaves, if desired.
### Tips for Customization:
- **Protein Boost:** Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for an extra protein punch.
- **Veggie Variations:** Feel free to customize the vegetables based on your preferences and what's in season. Bell peppers, artichoke hearts, and avocado are all delicious additions.
- **Dressing Diversity:** Experiment with different dressings such as pesto, lemon vinaigrette, or creamy ranch for a unique flavor profile.
### Final Thoughts:
Pasta salad is not only a crowd-pleaser but also a versatile dish that can be tailored to suit any occasion or dietary preference. With its colorful array of fresh ingredients and tangy dressing, this pasta salad recipe is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. So, next time you're looking for a quick and satisfying meal, whip up a batch of this delectable pasta salad and let your taste buds rejoice!
