A Delicious and Colorful Italian Confetti Pasta Salad

This Italian Confetti Pasta Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that is perfect for picnics, barbecues, or any gathering. Made with colorful vegetables, pasta, and a zesty Italian dressing, this salad is both visually appealing and delicious. It's easy to prepare and can be made in advance, allowing you to focus on enjoying time with your guests. Serve this salad as a side dish or a light main course, and watch as it becomes the star of the meal.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces tri-color spiral pasta
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup diced cucumber
• 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
• 1/2 cup diced yellow bell pepper
• 1/2 cup diced orange bell pepper
• 1/2 cup sliced black olives
• 1/4 cup diced red onion
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Directions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell peppers, olives, red onion, parsley, basil, and Parmesan cheese.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic, Dijon mustard, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
4. Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss to coat evenly. Adjust the seasoning if needed.
5. Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
6. Before serving, give the salad a final toss and adjust the seasoning if needed.
7. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Interesting Facts