Angel Hair Pasta Salad is a light and refreshing dish that combines delicate pasta with crisp vegetables and a tangy dressing. This versatile salad is perfect for picnics, potlucks, or as a quick lunch on warm days. The thin angel hair pasta soaks up the flavors of the dressing beautifully, while the mix of colorful veggies adds crunch and freshness. Easy to make and endlessly customizable, this pasta salad is a crowd-pleaser that can be enjoyed year-round.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz angel hair pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup black or green olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 1/4 cup Italian dressing (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the angel hair pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta. Toss with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Vegetables: While the pasta cools, chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, and red onion. Slice the olives and set all the veggies aside.
- Mix the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, vegetables, olives, and parsley. Toss gently to distribute the ingredients evenly.
- Add the Dressing: Drizzle the Italian dressing over the salad and toss to coat the pasta and vegetables. Add more dressing if needed to suit your taste. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
- Season and Chill: Season the salad with salt and pepper to taste. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve: Before serving, give the salad a quick toss and garnish with lemon wedges or additional parsley for a bright finish. Serve chilled and enjoy this light, flavorful Angel Hair Pasta Salad!
This easy and versatile dish is sure to be a hit at any gathering or as a satisfying meal on its own.
