The Ultimate Pasta Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that’s perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a light lunch. Packed with a colorful medley of fresh vegetables, savory cheeses, and hearty pasta, this salad is tossed in a tangy and herby vinaigrette that ties everything together beautifully. The variety of textures and flavors in this dish make it a crowd-pleaser, appealing to both kids and adults alike. Easy to prepare and highly customizable, this pasta salad can be made ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld together for an even tastier experience.
Ingredients:
- For the Salad:
- 12 oz rotini or bowtie pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1 cup bell peppers (red, yellow, or green), diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1 cup mozzarella pearls or cubed mozzarella
- 1/2 cup salami or pepperoni, diced (optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- 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 the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Allow it to cool completely.
- Prepare the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, sugar, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Assemble the Salad:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell peppers, red onion, black olives, mozzarella pearls, and diced salami or pepperoni (if using).
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is evenly coated.
- Add Fresh Herbs:
- Gently fold in the chopped fresh parsley and basil.
- Chill and Serve:
- Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Give the salad a good toss before serving and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
Enjoy your Ultimate Pasta Salad, a colorful and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion!
