Perfect Pasta Salad Recipe

Pasta salad is one of those versatile dishes that can be enjoyed as a main course or as a side dish for your summer BBQs and picnics. Perfectly cooked pasta, along with fresh vegetables and tasty dressing, can transform into an unforgettable meal. In this article, we'll guide you through the steps to prepare a delicious and refreshing Pasta Salad.

Ingredients:

2 cups of spiral pasta
1 medium cucumber (peeled)
1 bell pepper - green or red
1 small red onion
3 tablespoons of mayonnaise
2 tablespoons of olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Paprika for garnish

Cooking Time: 45 minutes

Servings: 6 people

Step-by-Step Guide

Boiling the Pasta

Begin by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Salt it generously, and then add the pasta. Follow the package directions for cooking time; however, you can start checking the pasta after 7 minutes since overcooking will make your pasta soft.

Cooling the Pasta

Once the pasta is cooked, immediately drain it thoroughly in a colander and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Drain well and set aside until cool enough to handle.

Prepping Vegetables

While the pasta is boiling, slice the cucumber into small pieces and chop the bell pepper and red onion finely. The vegetables should be in bite-sized pieces for a better texture when mixed with pasta salad.

Mixing Ingredients Together

In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled cooked pasta, prepared vegetables, mayonnaise, olive oil, salt to taste, and pepper. Mix everything well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.

Finalizing and Serving

Sprinkle some paprika on top of the salad as a garnish before serving. This not only adds color but also enhances flavor slightly. Taste again for seasoning and make any necessary adjustments. Your Pasta Salad is now ready to serve, either at room temperature or chilled.

Tips & Variations

For those who want their pasta salad to last longer without going stale, try using less mayonnaise or substituting it with a light dressing like Italian vinaigrette. Adding in some herbs such as parsley can also elevate the taste and aroma of your salad.

If you prefer more protein, consider adding chicken strips, cooked shrimp, or even finely chopped ham into your pasta salad for added texture and flavor.
For a heartier version, use whole grain pasta which is rich in fiber. It might add some extra cooking time but can be a healthier option compared to traditional pasta.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

This estimate is based on the ingredients provided:

Calories: 365 kcal
Fat: 19g
Sodium: 400mg
Potassium: 570mg

Enjoy your delicious and nutritious Pasta Salad! Whether you're having a casual lunch, hosting a dinner party, or packing it for your picnic, this dish is sure to be a hit. Perfect pasta salad is all about finding the balance between all these flavors, so feel free to experiment with different herbs and seasonings.

With just a few simple steps, you can create a meal that's as impressive in taste as it is visually appealing. This recipe demonstrates how versatile pasta can be when combined with fresh ingredients. So next time you're looking for an easy yet satisfying dish to prepare, try your hand at making this delicious and healthy Pasta Salad.