Perfect Pasta Salad for a Summer Picnic

Looking for an easy pasta salad recipe? This perfect pasta salad is just what you need to add some color and flavor to your summer picnic or potluck! Perfect for entertaining, this dish requires minimal effort but delivers big taste. With its combination of fresh vegetables, herbs, and a tangy dressing, this pasta salad will be the hit of any gathering.

Ingredients:

• 8 ounces of pasta
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• ½ red onion, finely chopped
• 2 tomatoes, chopped into small cubes
• 3 green onions, sliced
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• A sprinkle of fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

Start by boiling the pasta according to package instructions. Once it’s cooked, strain and let it cool down. While the pasta is cooling, prepare all your vegetables.

Once the pasta has cooled completely, mix it with the cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, tomatoes, and green onions in a large bowl. Set aside.

Preparation Time:

The preparation time for this perfect pasta salad is approximately 20 minutes. The cooking time depends on how you like your pasta – al dente or soft.

Serving Size:

This recipe serves four people generously, with each serving containing about half a cup of the pasta salad.

For the dressing, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Taste it to adjust seasoning as necessary. Pour this mixture over the pasta salad and toss until all ingredients are well combined.

Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Tips and Variations:

• To make this dish vegan-friendly, you can replace olive oil with vegetable oil or any other neutral-tasting oil.
• For those who love more heat, add some chili flakes or jalapeños. This will give your pasta salad a nice kick!
• If you prefer to use fresh herbs instead of parsley, consider adding basil, mint, or cilantro for extra freshness and flavor.

Cooking Time:

The total cooking time is 45 minutes including the preparation time. The pasta will take about 10-12 minutes to cook depending on your preference, and you'll spend around 30 minutes preparing the vegetables and dressing. The chill time adds another 30 minutes.

Conclusion:

This perfect pasta salad is not only easy but also delicious! It’s a great dish for summer picnics or backyard barbecues because it keeps well in the fridge, and its versatility allows for adjustments based on individual preferences. Whether you're looking to impress your guests with a light yet flavorful meal or simply want an enjoyable snack during hot weather days, this pasta salad does the trick.

Remember that cooking time may vary slightly depending on the type of pasta used and your personal preference regarding doneness. Always adjust the seasoning after mixing all ingredients together for best results!