Perfectly Balanced Italian Pasta Salad

Italian pasta salad is a delightful dish that captures the essence of summer meals with its vibrant colors and fresh flavors. Whether you're looking to enjoy a light lunch or a satisfying dinner, this recipe provides a perfect balance of texture and taste.

Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4-6 people

Ingredients

8 ounces of penne pasta
1 large cucumber, sliced into thin rounds
1 medium red bell pepper, julienned
½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Begin by boiling the penne pasta in a large pot of salted water for about 8 minutes or until al dente. Drain well after cooking and allow it to cool under cold running water to prevent overcooking.

In a mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta along with the cucumber slices, red bell pepper strips, and cherry tomatoes. Gently mix all ingredients together. This step is crucial as it allows you to ensure that no ingredient clumps together when dressing.

Next, prepare your dressing by whisking olive oil, lemon juice, dried oregano, salt, and pepper in a separate small bowl until well combined. Taste the dressing; adjust seasoning if necessary to suit your personal taste preferences.

Pour this dressing over the pasta mixture, ensuring each bite has a perfect blend of flavors. The salad will absorb the dressing better after resting for about 15 minutes refrigerated so the flavors meld together perfectly. Afterward, gently toss everything again to make sure all ingredients are well coated with dressing.

Finally, garnish the top of your pasta salad with freshly chopped parsley before serving cold or at room temperature according to your preference.

Tips and Variations

To add some heat: Consider adding a dash of hot pepper flakes during the dressing preparation for extra zing. Alternatively, toss in some cooked shrimp if you're looking for more protein.
For an international twist: Experiment with different types of pasta like fusilli or rotini to change up the texture. Adding a handful of Kalamata olives can also provide a Mediterranean flair.

Nutritional Information (approximate per serving)

The nutritional information may vary depending on the exact ingredients used but here is an estimated overview based on typical proportions:

Calories: ~350 kcal
Total Fat: ~18 g
Saturated Fat: ~4g
Total Carbohydrate: ~60g
Fiber: ~9g
Sugars: ~7g
Protein: ~15g
Sodium: ~250 mg (depending on salt added)

Conclusion

This Italian pasta salad is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. It's easy to prepare, requiring minimal effort and time, making it an ideal choice for busy days or lazy Sundays when you still want to enjoy a healthy yet satisfying meal.

Enjoy your vibrant and refreshing Italian pasta salad while knowing you've indulged in a balanced and nutritious dish that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. Try experimenting with different vegetables or proteins to keep things interesting every time you make it!

Note: Always ensure the ingredients are fresh and properly prepared to enhance the overall quality and taste of your meal.