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.
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.
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.
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.
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