Easy Italian Pasta Salad Recipe

The classic combination of pasta, tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions in a zesty dressing makes this easy Italian pasta salad a delightful dish for any occasion. This refreshing recipe is perfect for potlucks, picnics, or casual dinner gatherings, offering a simple yet tasty option that can be prepared ahead of time.

Preparation time: 15 minutes

Cooking time: 4 minutes (for the pasta)

Servings: 8-10 people

Ingredients

6 ounces (about 7 cups) bow-tie pasta or your preferred shape
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 garlic clove, minced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
½ cucumber, diced
¼ medium red onion, thinly sliced
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: 2 tablespoons Italian parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (about 4 minutes for bow-tie pasta). Drain well, rinse under cold water to cool, and pat dry with paper towels.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, sugar, dried oregano, and minced garlic. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

Mix the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, sliced red onion, and optional Italian parsley in a large bowl. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to 8 hours to allow flavors to meld together. Serve chilled!

Nutritional Information (per serving)

The nutritional information per serving is approximate:

Calories: ~250 kcal
Total Fat: ~10 g
Saturated Fat: ~1.5 g
Cholesterol: < 1 mg
Sodium: ~300 mg
Total Carbohydrates: ~40 g
Fiber: ~4 g
Sugars: ~6 g
Protein: ~7 g

Tips for Success

To ensure the best results, follow these tips:

Use a variety of pasta shapes for added texture.
Add more red pepper flakes if you prefer a spicy kick to your salad.
For extra flavor, roast cherry tomatoes in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15 minutes before adding them to the salad. This concentrates their sweetness and adds depth to the dish.

Variations

This easy Italian pasta salad is versatile and can be adapted according to your preferences:

Chef's Tip #1: Add More Color: Incorporate bell peppers, green olives, or even capers for a burst of color.
Chef's Tip #2: Creamy Variation: Substitute half of the olive oil with mayonnaise to create a creamy pasta salad. Adjust the sugar and vinegar ratios accordingly.
Chef's Tip #3: Pesto Pasta Salad: Swap the red wine vinegar for pesto and add some grated Parmesan cheese for a different flavor profile.

Storage Guide

If you're making this pasta salad in advance, here are some storage tips:

Cooked pasta will absorb more dressing as it cools. To prevent soggy pasta, add the dressing just before serving.
For best results, store the salad in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use any type of pasta?
A: Yes! While bow-tie pasta is traditionally used, feel free to experiment with your favorite pasta shapes. Just ensure you choose a variety that holds up well after cooking.
Q: Is this salad suitable for vegetarians?
A: Absolutely! Since there are no meat or dairy ingredients, this is a great vegetarian-friendly dish.
Q: How do I make the salad more filling?
A: Adding protein-rich components like cooked chicken, black beans, or edamame can bulk up the salad and provide sustained energy throughout the meal.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Italian pasta salad. It's a simple yet satisfying dish that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and dietary preferences!