Pasta salads are a delicious and versatile meal that can be enjoyed as a side dish or a main course. They are also a great way to use up leftover cooked pasta. This recipe for pasta salad with vinaigrette dressing is easy to make and features a tasty combination of fresh vegetables and herbs. The creamy vinaigrette dressing ties all the ingredients together perfectly, creating a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Ingredients Needed for Pasta Salad with Vinaigrette Dressing
To make this delicious pasta salad, you will need the following ingredients:
1 pound of cooked pasta
1/2 cup of chopped fresh tomatoes
1/2 cup of chopped fresh cucumber
1/2 cup of chopped fresh red onion
1/2 cup of chopped fresh parsley
1/2 cup of chopped fresh basil
1/2 cup of olive oil
1/4 cup of white wine vinegar
1 teaspoon of honey
1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions for Making Pasta Salad with Vinaigrette Dressing
Making this pasta salad is easy. Begin by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain the cooked pasta and rinse with cool water. Place the pasta in a large bowl and set aside.Next, add the chopped tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, parsley and basil to the bowl. Stir until the ingredients are evenly distributed.In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, white wine vinegar, honey and Dijon mustard. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetables and stir to combine.Let the pasta salad sit for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to develop. Serve the pasta salad with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, if desired.
Serving Suggestions for Pasta Salad with Vinaigrette Dressing
This pasta salad is delicious served on its own as a main course, or as a side dish to accompany grilled meats or fish. It can also be served as part of a buffet spread or as part of a picnic lunch.
Tips for Making the Best Pasta Salad
For best results, use the freshest ingredients possible when making this pasta salad. The vegetables should be chopped into small, bite-sized pieces for easier eating. For added flavor, try adding a handful of crumbled feta cheese or toasted pine nuts to the salad.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of pasta is best for pasta salad?
Any type of pasta can be used for pasta salad, but some of the most popular varieties are shells, rotini, farfalle, and penne.
Can I make pasta salad ahead of time?
Yes, pasta salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days.
What can I add to the pasta salad?
In addition to the vegetables listed in the recipe, you can also add cooked chicken, shrimp, sausage, or other proteins to the salad. You can also add crumbled feta cheese or toasted pine nuts for extra flavor.
How can I make a vegan version of this pasta salad?
To make a vegan version of this pasta salad, simply omit the honey from the vinaigrette dressing. You can also add cooked tofu or tempeh to the salad for extra protein.
Can I freeze pasta salad?
No, it is not recommended to freeze pasta salad as it can become soggy and lose its flavor.
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