Summer pasta salad

This vibrant summer pasta salad is a delightful and visually appealing choice, fitting for any gathering!

This uncomplicated recipe highlights the finest summer vegetables harmoniously combined with tender pasta, all enhanced by a wonderfully uncomplicated dressing.

A chilled pasta salad is an ideal choice for a meal or side dish on a scorching summer day.

Simple summer pasta salad

Summer pasta salad is a convenient make-ahead meal or side dish, perfect for warm days or speedy lunches.
This economical dish is an excellent way to utilize leftover vegetables, transforming them into a party-ready delight in no time!
Embraced by both adults and children, it’s a fantastic method to incorporate nutritious vegetables into a refreshing meal.
Elevate it to a main course by adding grilled chicken breasts or thighs, summer sausage, shrimp, or even beans or chickpeas as toppings.
Whether it’s the veggies from your fridge or those freshly picked from your garden, the possibilities are wide open.

Summer pasta salad recipe video

Credit: OrsaraRecipes

Ingredients:

250g (8.8oz) of your favourite pasta (penne, fusilli, or rotini work well)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
1/2 cup black olives, pitted and sliced
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
1/4 cup fresh parsley leaves, chopped

For the Dressing:

1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 clove garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta:

Bring a big saucepan of salted water to a roaring boil. Add the pasta and cook it according to the instructions on the package until it’s pleasantly firm to the bite. Then, drain the pasta and give it a quick rinse under cold water to halt the cooking process. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables:

As the pasta cooks, get the vegetables ready. Split the cherry tomatoes in half, chop the cucumber and red bell pepper into small pieces, and thinly cut the red onion. Place them all in a large mixing bowl.

Step 3: Add Olives and Herbs:

Add the sliced black olives, chopped basil, and parsley to the bowl with the vegetables.

Step 4: Make the Dressing:

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Step 5: Combine Everything:

Pour the cooked and cooled pasta over the vegetables and herbs. Drizzle the dressing over the top.

Step 6: Toss Gently:

Delicately mix all the ingredients until the pasta and vegetables are thoroughly coated with the dressing.

Step 7: Chill and Serve:

Place a lid on the bowl and let it chill in the refrigerator for a minimum of 30 minutes to let the Flavors blend harmoniously. You can enjoy this salad either chilled or at room temperature.

Step 8: Optional Garnish:

Just before serving, you can add a few extra basil and parsley leaves for a fresh touch.

Enjoy your delicious and refreshing Fresh Summer Pasta Salad! It’s perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a light meal on a warm day.

My best summer pasta salad tips

Extend Cooking Time: Prepare your pasta to a state slightly beyond the conventional al dente, ensuring it’s tender yet firm upon cooling. Typically, the upper limit of the cooking duration suggested on the packaging is ideal for a chilled pasta salad.
Cool Completely: Allow your pasta to reach room temperature before combining it with other elements. Introducing hot pasta will inadvertently cook and wilt the vegetables, which is far from desirable. Ensure your pasta is completely cool to maintain the integrity of your dish.
Taste and Refine: This recipe is highly adaptable, so tasting and adjusting before serving is crucial. For a more piquant flavor, increase the lemon juice; for a veggie-rich salad, incorporate additional greens. Always season with salt to enhance the overall taste.

Recipe Variations

This pasta salad stands out in its original form, yet it invites personalization to suit your palate or the contents of your pantry. Here are several imaginative adjustments:

Embrace Veganism: Substitute feta with olives or sun-dried tomatoes to create a vegan-friendly version.
Opt for Gluten-Free: Replace conventional pasta with gluten-free alternatives or quinoa to cater to gluten sensitivities.
Greek Twist: Infuse a Greek essence by incorporating 1/2 cup of kalamata or black olives, diced bell pepper, and thinly sliced red onion.
Caprese Fusion: Swap feta for halved mini mozzarella balls for a delightful Caprese variation.
Herb Experimentation: Fresh oregano can serve as a splendid alternative to mint, while thyme can be a harmonious addition.
Leafy Green Substitution: Exchange arugula for spinach, or omit it entirely if a higher pasta-to-veggie ratio is preferred.

Summer pasta salad nutrition information:

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	325 kcal
Total Fat	18g
– Saturated Fat	2.5g
Cholesterol	0mg
Sodium	150mg
Total Carbohydrates	36g
– Dietary Fiber	4g
– Sugars	5g
Protein	6g
Vitamin D	0mcg
Calcium	38mg
Iron	2mg
Potassium	414mg

Summer pasta salad health benefits:

Pasta: Provides complex carbohydrates for sustained energy and is a good source of B-vitamins and iron.
Cherry Tomatoes: Rich in antioxidants like lycopene, vitamin C, and potassium. They support heart health and contribute to skin health.
Cucumber: High water content helps keep you hydrated. It’s a good source of vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin K.
Red Bell Pepper: Packed with vitamin C, vitamin A, and antioxidants. They support immune health and promote good vision.
Red Onion: Contains antioxidants and compounds that may reduce inflammation and promote heart health.
Black Olives: Provide healthy monounsaturated fats and contain antioxidants that support heart health.
Fresh Basil: Contains essential oils with anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. It’s a good source of vitamin K and a decent source of calcium.
Fresh Parsley: Rich in vitamin K, vitamin C, and antioxidants. It supports bone health and may aid digestion.
Olive Oil: Contains monounsaturated fats and antioxidants that are beneficial for heart health. It may also have anti-inflammatory effects.
Balsamic Vinegar: Contains antioxidants and has potential health benefits, including improved digestion and blood sugar control.
Lemon Juice: High in vitamin C and antioxidants, which support immune health and may aid digestion.
Garlic: Contains allicin, a compound with potential health benefits, including reducing cholesterol and blood pressure.
Dijon Mustard: Low in calories and a source of antioxidants, it can add flavour without extra fat or sodium.

Note: Nutrition values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Leftover Pasta Salad?

Store any extra summer pasta salad in a covered container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Prior to serving again, give it a gentle stir and adjust seasonings as needed.

Storage and Reheating Instruction:

Storage:

To store the Fresh Summer Pasta Salad, follow these steps:

Refrigeration: Place any remaining salad in a tightly sealed container. Ensure that the container is sealed well to prevent air exposure.
Labelling: Optionally, label the container with the date of preparation. This can assist you in monitoring its level of freshness.
Refrigerator Placement: Store the container in the refrigerator. The salad should be consumed within 2-3 days for best taste and texture.

Reheating:

This pasta salad is typically served cold, but if you prefer it warm, follow these steps:

Microwave: Place a portion of the salad in a microwave-safe dish and heat it in short intervals, stirring in between, until it reaches your desired temperature.
Stovetop: Transfer the desired portion to a saucepan and warm it over low to medium heat. Stir frequently to ensure even heating.

NOTE: It’s not advised to freeze pasta salad as it may lose its texture. It’s best to start anew for a fresh salad experience.

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