This Italian pasta salad is a crowd-pleasing dish that is perfect for picnics, barbecues, and potlucks. Made with fresh vegetables, tangy Italian dressing, and a variety of flavorful herbs, this salad is a refreshing and satisfying side dish. The combination of tender pasta, crisp veggies, and savory dressing creates a harmony of flavors that will leave you craving for more. This recipe is easy to make and can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it a convenient option for busy days. Give this recipe a try and impress your friends and family with its deliciousness.
Ingredients
- Pasta (any shape) - 8 ounces
- Cherry tomatoes - 1 cup, halved
- Cucumber - 1, diced
- Red bell pepper - 1, diced
- Black olives - 1/2 cup, sliced
- Red onion - 1/4 cup, thinly sliced
- Fresh mozzarella cheese - 1/2 cup, cubed
- For the dressing:
- Extra virgin olive oil - 1/4 cup
- Red wine vinegar - 2 tablespoons
- Dijon mustard - 1 tablespoon
- Honey - 1 teaspoon
- Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
- Italian seasoning - 1 teaspoon
- Salt - 1/2 teaspoon
- Black pepper - 1/4 teaspoon
- Fresh basil - 2 tablespoons, chopped
- Fresh parsley - 2 tablespoons, chopped
Directions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, black olives, red onion, and mozzarella cheese.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently to coat all the ingredients.
- Add the chopped basil and parsley, and toss again to combine well.
- Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve chilled and enjoy!
