Delicious Italian Pasta Salad Recipe

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

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, black olives, red onion, and mozzarella cheese.
3. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
4. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently to coat all the ingredients.
5. Add the chopped basil and parsley, and toss again to combine well.
6. Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
7. Serve chilled and enjoy!

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