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Easy Pasta Salad

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A colorful and refreshing Easy Pasta Salad packed with tender pasta, crisp vegetables, cheese, and a zesty homemade dressing. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or quick weekday meals, this versatile salad is a crowd-pleaser that’s simple to make and bursting with flavor.

Ingredients

  • 12 oz short pasta (rotini, penne, or fusilli)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
  • 1 bell pepper, chopped
  • 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cubed cheddar cheese
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or basil, chopped

For the Dressing:

  • 1/3 cup olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar or lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon honey or sugar (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking.
  2. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, bell peppers, olives, and cheese.
  3. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic, oregano, honey, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
  4. Pour dressing over pasta mixture and toss until evenly coated.
  5. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil.
  6. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving for best flavor.

Notes

  • Use short pasta shapes like rotini or penne that hold dressing well.
  • For extra protein, add chickpeas, tuna, chicken, or salami.
  • Make it vegan by omitting cheese or using a plant-based substitute.
  • Best served cold or at room temperature—no reheating required.
  • Flavors improve after chilling, so it’s great for meal prep.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/easy-pasta-salad/