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Pasta Salad

Delicious Pasta Salad with Homemade Dressing
Print Recipe
Prep Time 2 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine American, Mediterranean
Servings 4
Calories 320 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 3 cups rotini or penne pasta
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
  • 1/2 cup bell peppers (red or yellow), diced
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)

For the Homemade Dressing:

  • 1/3 cup olive oil
  • 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

  • Cook the Pasta
    Boil the pasta in salted water until tender but firm. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Let it cool completely.
  • Prepare the Vegetables
    Chop all vegetables into bite-sized pieces. Place them in a large mixing bowl.
  • Whisk the Dressing
    In a small bowl, combine olive oil, vinegar, lemon juice, mustard, garlic, and oregano. Whisk well until the dressing emulsifies. Add salt and pepper to taste.
  • Combine and Toss
    Add cooled pasta to the vegetables. Pour the dressing over the salad. Gently toss everything together to coat evenly. Sprinkle feta and fresh basil on top.
  • Chill and Serve
    Refrigerate the pasta salad for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavors blend beautifully. Serve cold for the best taste.

Notes

Notes

  • For a creamier texture, add a spoonful of Greek yogurt or avocado to the dressing.
  • Chill the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to enhance flavor.
  • Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier twist.
  • Add nuts or seeds like sunflower or pine nuts for extra crunch.
  • Best served cold, making it ideal for hot summer days or meal prep.
  • Customize with your favourite vegetables or proteins—this recipe is very adaptable.
 
 
Keyword cold pasta salad,, homemade dressing, pasta salad,, picnic salad,, summer recipe