The Ultimate Pasta Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish packed with fresh vegetables, hearty pasta, and a zesty dressing. Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or a quick weekday meal, this salad is a crowd-pleaser with its mix of textures and bold flavors.
Origin The Ultimate Pasta Salad
Pasta salad has its roots in Italian cuisine, where cold pasta dishes have long been enjoyed with olive oil, herbs, and vegetables. Over time, different variations have emerged across the world, incorporating ingredients like cheese, meats, and tangy dressings to create a more robust and satisfying dish.
What I Love About This Recipe
This pasta salad is incredibly versatile—you can customize it with your favorite ingredients, whether it’s extra veggies, grilled chicken, or different cheeses. The combination of a tangy dressing with crunchy vegetables and al dente pasta makes every bite exciting. Plus, it’s easy to make ahead, making it a go-to for meal prep and gatherings.
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The Ultimate Pasta Salad
12
servings15
minutes10
minutes411
kcalIngredients
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 clove garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or bowtie)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup cucumber, diced
1/2 cup bell pepper, chopped
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/2 cup black olives, sliced
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Directions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, black olives, and parsley.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss everything together until well coated.
- Gently fold in the crumbled feta cheese.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve chilled and enjoy!
Notes
- For a protein boost, add grilled chicken, chickpeas, or salami.
