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Easy Pasta Salad

Easy Pasta Salad Bursting with Fresh Flavors and Colors

This Easy Pasta Salad is a refreshing, vibrant dish perfect for summer gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Cooling Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 7 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 12 ounces Bow Tie Pasta (farfalle) Substitute with any short pasta like penne
For the Veggies
  • 1 cup Cucumbers Can substitute with celery
  • 1 cup Cherry or Grape Tomatoes Regular chopped tomatoes work in a pinch
  • ½ cup Kalamata Olives Use capers or sliced red onion as an alternative
For the Cheese
  • 1 cup Greek Feta Crumbled goat cheese is a tasty alternative
For the Dressing
  • cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil Regular olive oil can be used
  • ¼ cup Apple Cider Vinegar Substitute with white or red wine vinegar if preferred
  • 2 cloves Garlic Minced; garlic powder can be used
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard Feel free to omit
  • 1 tablespoon Honey Maple syrup works as a substitute
  • 1 teaspoon Italian Herb Mix Dried oregano or Herbs de Provence are great alternatives
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Pepper
For the Finish
  • ¼ cup Basil Can substitute with dill or parsley

Equipment

  • large pot
  • colander
  • Mixing Bowl
  • jar with tight-fitting lid

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add the bow tie pasta and cook for about 10–12 minutes, until very soft. Drain and let cool slightly.
  2. While the pasta cools, combine the extra virgin olive oil, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, honey, Italian herb mix, and a pinch of salt and pepper in a jar. Shake well for 30 seconds until emulsified.
  3. Transfer the drained pasta into a mixing bowl and pour about two-thirds of the dressing over the pasta, tossing gently until coated. Let sit for about 40 minutes at room temperature.
  4. Fold in the diced cucumbers, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced Kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese. Drizzle remaining dressing over and toss gently to mix.
  5. Tear fresh basil leaves and sprinkle over the salad. Toss together to combine flavors.
  6. Serve in a large bowl or platter at room temperature.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 8gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 13gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 250mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For best flavor, store salad without fresh herbs and add them before serving. Serve chilled but not for too long to maintain vibrant taste.

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