The Absolutely Smashing Summer Pasta Salad

Absolutely Smashing Summer Pasta Salad: The Recipe Intro

Ever had a dish that just screams summer? I have! This Awesome Pasta Salad does exactly that. Seriously, is this the Best Pasta Salad ? It might just be! It's packed with flavour and super easy to whip up.

Why This Pasta Salad Rocks

Let's be honest. A decent Pasta Salad Recipe is a must-have for any proper cook. This one’s got a vibrant, refreshing taste.

It blends fresh veggies, perfectly cooked pasta and a tangy vinaigrette. Mary Berry would be impressed, I reckon.

This isn't some fancy-pants Italian pasta salad recipe . It's a simple, quick meal. It only takes about 30 minutes, plus chilling time.

The recipe makes about 6-8 servings. Perfect for a barbie or a picnic.

The Good Stuff

One of the best things? It’s full of goodness! Loads of veggies mean you're getting a good dose of vitamins.

Plus, it’s great for those summer pasta salad recipes when you don't want a heavy meal. Or a Picnic pasta salad , is an absolutely perfect choice.

The health benefit is that its loaded with fiber and vitamins, and it’s perfect for summer.

Honestly, what makes this Amazing Pasta salad special is the freshness. It’s all about the quality of the ingredients. The flavor of a cold Pasta Salad Recipe is so good.

The salad is a crowd-pleaser. Even for those who aren’t big on salad.

Ready to get started? First, you’ll need to gather your ingredients. Let's get to it!

The Absolutely Smashing Summer Pasta Salad Recipe Card

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Preparation time:20 Mins

Cooking time:12 Mins

Servings:6-8 servings

Ingredients:

• 1 pound (450g) rotini pasta
• Water for boiling
• 1 tablespoon (15 ml) salt
• 1 cup (120g) cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup (50g) cucumber, diced
• 1/2 cup (60g) red onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup (75g) bell pepper, diced
• 1/4 cup (15g) fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup (15g) fresh basil, chopped
• 1/4 cup (60 ml) olive oil
• 3 tablespoons (45 ml) red wine vinegar
• 1 tablespoon (15 ml) Dijon mustard
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 ml) dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon (1.25 ml) salt
• 1/4 teaspoon (1.25 ml) black pepper

Instructions:

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente.
• Drain the pasta in a colander and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Shake off excess water.
• While the pasta is cooking, chop all the vegetables according to the ingredient list.
• In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
• In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chopped vegetables, and vinaigrette. Toss well to coat everything evenly.
• Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Stir before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Calories:375

Fat:17.5g

Fiber:3.5g

Recipe Info

Category:Salad

Cuisine:Italian-American

Ingredients & Equipment for the Awesome Pasta Salad

Right, let's get down to brass tacks. What do you actually need to whip up this best pasta salad ? Fear not, it's all pretty straightforward.

You can create an amazing pasta salad with things you probaby already have!

Main Ingredients

• Pasta: 1 pound (450g) rotini. Honestly, any short pasta will do. I've used fusilli before, and it's been just champion. Just make sure it’s good quality!
• Cherry Tomatoes: 1 cup (120g), halved. Get the ripest ones you can find. Those little blighters make all the difference.
• Cucumber: 1/2 cup (50g), diced. English cucumber is ace.
• Red Onion: 1/2 cup (60g), finely chopped. Not too much or it’ll overpower everything.
• Bell Pepper: 1/2 cup (75g), diced. Red, yellow, green - a mix is the best shout.
• Fresh Parsley: 1/4 cup (15g), chopped. Go for flat-leaf.
• Fresh Basil: 1/4 cup (15g), chopped. The smell alone is divine.
• Olive Oil: 1/4 cup (60 ml). Extra virgin, if you’re feeling posh.
• Red Wine Vinegar: 3 tablespoons (45 ml). Adds a proper zing.
• Dijon Mustard: 1 tablespoon (15 ml). Not too much, just a smidge for flavour.
• Garlic: 1 clove , minced. I'm Italian, so i love garlic, but adjust this to your liking.
• Dried Oregano: 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 ml). A classic Italian touch.
• Salt: 1/4 teaspoon (1.25 ml). To taste, obviously.
• Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon (1.25 ml). Freshly ground, if possible.

Seasoning Notes

Okay, listen up! The right seasoning is key. Oregano is essential for that authentic Italian pasta salad recipe . If you want a bit of a kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Sometimes I’ll throw in a bit of balsamic glaze. It’s a game changer! For an easy pasta salad ideas , consider to add a lemon zests.

Equipment Needed

• Large Pot: For cooking the pasta.
• Colander: For draining the pasta.
• Large Mixing Bowl: To chuck everything in.
• Whisk: For the vinaigrette.
• Chopping Board & Knife: Can't really get by without these, can you?

For the most part you can use your regular kitchen equipement. If you are still searching for a Pasta salad recipe you will probably already have all of these.

Right, now you’re sorted with the kit. Let’s get cooking this Summer pasta salad recipes !

Cooking Method: The Secret to Smashing Pasta Salad

Oh my gosh, are we talking Awesome Pasta Salad ? Seriously, who doesn't love it? It's the perfect dish for summer BBQs, picnics, or even a cheeky lunch.

Forget boring salads, we're diving into pasta salad recipe territory! Honestly, I used to make a right mess of it, but I've learned a few tricks along the way.

Time to spill the beans on how to whip up an Absolutely Smashing Summer Pasta Salad every single time.

Prep Like a Pro, Eat Like a King

Essential mise en place is crucial. Before you even think about boiling water, get everything prepped. Chop your veggies : 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved, 1/2 cup diced cucumber, 1/2 cup finely chopped red onion, 1/2 cup diced bell pepper.

Roughly chop 1/4 cup of fresh parsley, 1/4 cup fresh basil. Mince 1 clove of garlic. Think of it as your salad's runway.

It’s all about that deliciously fresh summer vibe , you know?

Time saving tip: Prep veggies day before. This will save you valuable minutes.

The Smashing Step-by-Step

1. Get your pasta sorted. Cook 1 pound of pasta ( rotini or fusilli works great!) in boiling salted water. Cook al dente, about 8- 10 minutes.
2. Drain it! Rinse the pasta with cold water to stop it cooking. Nobody likes mushy pasta, right?
3. Vinaigrette time! Whisk together 1/4 cup olive oil , 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, minced garlic, 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano , 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.
4. Chuck it all in! Combine the pasta, vegetables, and vinaigrette in a big bowl. Toss it like you mean it!
5. Chill for at least 30 minutes . This lets all those flavours get to know each other and turn into the Best Pasta Salad .

Pro Tips for Pasta Perfection

Want to take your Amazing Pasta salad to the next level? Honestly, it's all about the little things. If you want to try to make some Italian pasta salad recipe , add mozzarella.

Don't overcook the pasta, aim for al dente ! Undercook it slightly for the best result. It needs to have a little bite.

Make ahead? Absolutely! Just hold off on adding the dressing until just before serving to avoid soggy pasta. The reason why everyone loves Summer pasta salad recipes is because they are easy to make.

You will love the taste of the Picnic Pasta Salad . If you want Easy pasta salad ideas , just use the best ingredients.

Here is another valuable tip: I usually add a tiny bit of the pasta water to the dressing. It sounds mad, but trust me, it helps the dressing cling to the pasta better.

Recipe Notes For The Best Pasta Salad

Okay, let's chat about how to make this Awesome Pasta Salad even better . I've made this Pasta Salad Recipe so many times, I've got a few tricks up my sleeve.

Honestly, after all these attempts I can share the Amazing Pasta is all about details.

Ace Presentation: Plating Like A Pro

Presentation matters, right? Think about the colours. Use a clear bowl so everyone can admire the layers. Garnish with extra fresh herbs.

You could even use a fancy serving spoon. A nice drizzle of olive oil can make it look really special.

It is a great option on Summer pasta salad recipes .

Don't be afraid to garnish with edible flowers for a fancy touch. This Cold pasta salad recipes is also perfect on a platter.

Perfect Partners: Sides and Sips

This Easy pasta salad ideas is mega versatile. It goes great with grilled chicken or fish. A crusty baguette for mopping up the dressing is always a winner.

For drinks, try a chilled rosé or a sparkling lemonade. Something light and refreshing. I once served this with mini quiches at a picnic.

Storage Secrets: Keeping It Fresh

If you have any leftovers. This Italian pasta salad recipe can be stored in an airtight container. Stick it in the fridge for up to three days.

The pasta might absorb some of the dressing. So add a splash of olive oil before serving. I don't recommend freezing it.

The veggies get a bit soggy.

Switching It Up: Variations for Everyone

For a vegetarian version, load up on extra veggies. Add some roasted peppers or grilled aubergine. Need a gluten-free option? Swap the pasta for gluten-free pasta.

It tastes just as good, promise. You can also add more cheese for an amazing Resep Salad .

Health Check: The Good Stuff

This Picnic pasta salad is packed with goodness. It is got fiber from the pasta and vitamins from the veggies.

Olive oil is a healthy fat. Everything in moderation, of course. Just remember that portion control is key.

So there you have it! All my tips and tricks for the ultimate Awesome Pasta Salad . Get creative, have fun, and don't be afraid to experiment.

You will create an amazing Resep Pasta . Enjoy!