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As the temperatures rise and the days longer, nothing complements a sunny day quite like a refreshing summer pasta salad. Ideal for picnics, potlucks, or a light family dinner, this versatile dish is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. Here’s a simple recipe that promises to bring a burst of flavor to your summer table.
Try our Perfect Summer Pasta Salad! Easy, refreshing, and ideal for sunny days, picnics, or light dinners. Ready in just minutes!
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Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Pasta: 1 lb of your choice (penne, fusilli, or farfalle work great)
- Cherry Tomatoes: 1 cup, halved for a pop of juicy sweetness
- Cucumber: 1 whole, diced for a crisp crunch.
- Red Onion: 1/2, thinly sliced for a sharp bite
- Black Olives: 1/2 cup, sliced for a briny depth
- Feta Cheese: 1/2 cup, crumbled for creamy tanginess
- Fresh Basil: 1/4 cup, chopped for a fragrant touch
- Olive Oil & Red Wine Vinegar: For the dressing
- Garlic: 1 clove, minced for a hint of spice
- Seasonings: Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/4 cup of pine nuts or toasted almonds to add a nutty crunch
Step-by-Step Guide to Summer Pasta Salad Bliss:
- Cooking the Pasta:
- Start by boiling your pasta in a pot of salted water until al dente. Once cooked, drain and give it a quick rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and keep the pasta firm.
- Prepping the Veggies and Cheese:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, sliced red onion, and black olives. Add the crumbled feta cheese to this vibrant mix.
- Whisking Together the Dressing:
- In a separate, smaller bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined. This simple dressing will beautifully combine all the flavors.
- Bringing It All Together:
- Toss the cooked pasta into the bowl with your prepared vegetables and cheese. Drizzle the dressing over the top and mix thoroughly to ensure every piece is deliciously coated. Sprinkle the chopped basil and, if using, your choice of nuts for an extra layer of texture.
- Chill and Serve:
- Let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This not only cools the dish but allows the flavors to meld together perfectly.
This summer pasta salad is as adaptable as it is tasty. To make it a heartier meal, feel free to add your own twist with different vegetables, cheeses, or even a protein like grilled chicken or shrimp.
Pairing and Nutrition:
For those looking to pair this dish with a refreshing beverage, a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a non-alcoholic sparkling water with a twist of lime would complement the flavors wonderfully. Nutritional details can vary, but this dish is generally rich in healthy fats from olive oil and provides a good mix of protein and fiber, making it a balanced option for any meal.
Ready to try this out for your next summer gathering? Share your twists and experiences in the comments below—happy cooking!
