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Nothing beats a refreshing summer pasta salad on a hot day. This dish is a vibrant mix of cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and feta cheese, all tossed in a zesty lemon juice and olive oil dressing. It's light, flavorful, and perfect for picnics or barbecues. Let's dive into this easy, delicious recipe that will surely become a staple in your summer menu.
Summer Pasta Salad Recipe
Ingredients:
- 200 g any short pasta
- 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes
- 1 cup diced cucumber
- 1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tsp to taste salt
- 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
Instructions:
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and feta cheese.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss to combine.
- Garnish with fresh basil and serve chilled.
What You Will Need
Read more: Pasta Salad Recipe
What you will need to make summer pasta salad
- Pasta: Forms the base, providing a hearty texture that absorbs the dressing and complements the fresh vegetables.
- Cherry tomatoes: Adds a burst of sweetness and juiciness, balancing the savory elements of the salad.
- Cucumber: Brings a refreshing crunch and lightness, enhancing the overall texture.
- Red onion: Offers a sharp, tangy flavor that contrasts nicely with the other ingredients.
- Feta cheese: Adds a creamy, salty element, enriching the salad's flavor profile.
- Olive oil: Acts as the dressing's base, providing a smooth, rich texture that ties everything together.
- Lemon juice: Infuses a zesty brightness, cutting through the richness of the cheese and oil.
- Fresh basil: Adds a fragrant, herbal note, elevating the salad's freshness.
Tools and Instruments Needed
What tools/instruments will be needed to make Summer Pasta Salad Recipe
- Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta to the perfect texture.
- Colander: Drains the cooked pasta quickly and efficiently.
- Large mixing bowl: Combines all ingredients evenly without making a mess.
- Whisk: Blends the dressing ingredients smoothly.
- Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for chopping vegetables.
- Chef's knife: Slices and dices vegetables with precision.
- Measuring cups: Ensures accurate measurements for the dressing and other ingredients.
Summer Pasta Salad Recipe
A refreshing and easy-to-make pasta salad perfect for summer gatherings.
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Ingredients:
Main Ingredients
- 200 g Pasta any short pasta
- 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes halved
- 1 cup Cucumber diced
- 1/2 cup Red Onion thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup Feta Cheese crumbled
- 1/4 cup Olive Oil
- 2 tbsp Lemon Juice freshly squeezed
- 1 tsp Salt to taste
- 1/2 tsp Black Pepper freshly ground
- 1/4 cup Fresh Basil chopped
Instructions:
- 1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- 2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and feta cheese.
- 3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper.
- 4. Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss to combine.
- 5. Garnish with fresh basil and serve chilled.
Notes:
Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers or olives.
Read more: BLT Pasta Salad Recipe
Nutrition value:
Calories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 8gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 2mg
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Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
Make Ahead and Freezing Instructions
Make Ahead Instructions
- Cook pasta and let it cool completely.
- Prepare all veggies and store them in separate containers.
- Mix dressing and keep it in a jar.
- Combine everything just before serving.
Freezing Instructions
- Cook pasta, drain, and cool.
- Place pasta in a freezer-safe bag.
- Store veggies separately in airtight containers.
- Freeze dressing in a small container.
- Thaw everything in the fridge overnight before combining.
Adding a pinch of sugar to the dressing can balance the acidity from the lemon juice and enhance the overall flavor of the pasta salad.
Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ:
How long does this pasta salad last in the fridge?
It lasts up to 3 days in the fridge.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, goat cheese or mozzarella works well too.
Is it okay to add other vegetables?
Absolutely, bell peppers or olives make great additions.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, it tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge.
What type of pasta works best for this recipe?
Any short pasta like rotini, penne, or farfalle is perfect.
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