Perfectly Balanced Pasta Salad Recipe

Pasta salad is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with various sides to make a full meal.

This balanced pasta salad recipe promises to satisfy both your hunger and taste buds! It’s the perfect side for any barbecue, picnic, or casual dinner. Let's dive into this refreshing and nutritious dish that will keep you coming back for more.

Ingredients

• 3 cups of cooked pasta (any type)
• 1 medium cucumber, diced
• ½ red bell pepper, finely chopped
• ¼ cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 small onion, minced
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 2 tablespoons of lemon juice
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Optional: 1/4 cup of feta cheese

Cooking Time:

This recipe takes approximately 30 minutes, including the time for the pasta to cook.

Servings:

Yield: Makes about 6 servings as a side dish.

Instructions

1. Boil the Pasta: Start by boiling your preferred type of pasta. Follow the package instructions for cooking time, but usually, it's around 8-10 minutes or until al dente.
2. Cool Down the Pasta: Once cooked, drain the pasta thoroughly and spread it out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to cool down quickly. This prevents the pasta from sticking together in large clumps once you mix everything up later.
3. Dice and Chop Veggies: While the pasta is cooling, prepare your vegetables by dicing the cucumber, chopping the red bell pepper, halving cherry tomatoes, and mincing the onion. You want all these ingredients to be finely chopped so they blend well with the pasta.
4. Mix Everything Together: In a large bowl, combine your cooled pasta along with diced cucumber, red bell pepper, halved cherry tomatoes, and minced onions. Pour in the olive oil and lemon juice over it. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your preference.
5. Optional Addition: If you like a bit of extra creaminess and a touch of tangy flavor, crumble some feta cheese into this mix as well. This optional step adds depth to the dish without overwhelming its balance.
6. Chill Before Serving: Let your pasta salad sit in the fridge for at least one hour before serving it. The flavors meld together beautifully when chilled, making every bite more delightful than ever!

Tips and Variations

To take this dish to the next level, consider adding some grilled chicken or shrimp. It turns what was just a simple side into a complete meal. Another variation could be experimenting with different types of pasta; try whole wheat or spirals for added nutrients.

Conclusion

Pasta salad is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile and delicious! Whether you're hosting an outdoor gathering, having lunch at work, or simply looking for something quick yet satisfying to snack on during the week—this balanced pasta salad recipe ticks all boxes. Enjoy every bite!