Zesty Summer Cold Pasta Salad
Dive into summer with our Zesty Summer Cold Pasta Salad — a refreshing and vibrant dish that’s perfect for those warm days when you crave something light yet satisfying. This salad combines fresh veggies, tangy dressing, and hearty pasta for a delightful meal.
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Ingredients for Zesty Summer Cold Pasta Salad
Rotini pasta forms the base of this salad, providing a hearty texture that holds the dressing well. Cherry tomatoes bring a burst of juicy sweetness, while cucumber adds a refreshing crunch. The red bell pepper contributes a mild sweetness and vibrant color, and black olives offer a slightly salty, savory note. Red onion provides a subtle sharpness, and feta cheese adds a creamy, tangy element. The fresh basil provides an aromatic, herbal touch. For the dressing, lemon juice gives a bright, zesty flavor, olive oil lends richness, and red wine vinegar adds a tangy kick. A hint of honey balances the acidity, and salt and pepper round out the flavors.
Zesty Summer Cold Pasta Salad Tips & Tricks
- Rinse the pasta thoroughly under cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent it from sticking together.
- For extra flavor, let the salad sit overnight in the fridge before serving.
- Don’t skip the chilling step; it really enhances the flavors.
Serving Ideas for Zesty Summer Cold Pasta Salad
Serve this pasta salad alongside grilled chicken or fish for a well-rounded meal. It’s also fantastic as a standalone dish for a light lunch. Pair it with a chilled glass of white wine or a homemade lemonade for a refreshing summer vibe.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make this salad ahead of time?
- Absolutely! It tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld.
- What can I substitute for feta cheese?
- You can try goat cheese or leave it out for a dairy-free version.
- Is there a gluten-free option?
- Yes, simply use your favorite gluten-free pasta.
Zesty Summer Cold Pasta Salad Recipe Walkthrough
Start by cooking your rotini pasta according to the package instructions. You want it al dente, so it holds up well in the salad. Once done, drain and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down quickly.
While the pasta is cooling, combine your cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, black olives, red onion, and feta cheese in a large mixing bowl. This is where the magic starts, with all those colors and textures coming together.
In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, red wine vinegar, honey, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This dressing is quick but packs a flavorful punch.
Pour the dressing over your pasta and vegetable mixture, then toss everything gently to combine. You want to coat everything evenly without squishing the ingredients.
Finally, add the chopped basil and give it another gentle toss to distribute that fresh, herbal flavor throughout. Once combined, let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Why This Zesty Summer Cold Pasta Salad Works
- Quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy summer days.
- Full of fresh, colorful veggies that scream summer.
- Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or a light lunch.
- Customizable to fit your taste preferences.
Ingredients
- 1 lb rotini pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-step Instructions
- 1. Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- 2. In a large bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, black olives, red onion, and feta cheese.
- 3. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, red wine vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
- 4. Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetables. Toss gently to combine.
- 5. Add chopped basil and toss again to incorporate.
- 6. Chill the pasta salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.