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Best Easy Pasta Salad Recipe


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  • Author: Chef Emma
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A vibrant and refreshing pasta salad perfect for summer gatherings, packed with colorful veggies and a tangy dressing.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound farfalle pasta (or rotini)
  • 1 pint cherry tomatoes (halved lengthwise)
  • 1 medium English cucumber (sliced into half-moons; about 2 cups)
  • 1 cup diced mozzarella
  • ½ cup thinly sliced red onion (optional)
  • ¾ cup olive oil
  • ½ cup red wine vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 2 teaspoons minced garlic (from a jar or two cloves)
  • Freshly cracked black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Boil the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add the farfalle pasta and cook according to package directions. Drain and set aside to cool.
  2. Prep the veggies: While the pasta cools, slice the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion (if using).
  3. Make the dressing: In a jar, combine olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, dried oregano, honey, salt, and minced garlic. Shake or whisk until blended.
  4. Combine everything: In a large bowl, mix together the cooled pasta, tomatoes, cucumber, mozzarella, and red onion. Drizzle with the dressing and toss until thoroughly combined.
  5. Taste test: Give your pasta salad a little taste. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and oregano if desired. Serve cold or at room temperature.

Notes

This salad can be prepped a day in advance for the flavors to meld beautifully. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: No Cook
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 360mg
  • Fat: 21g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 16g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 27g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 8g
  • Cholesterol: 20mg