Description
This refreshing summer pasta salad is perfect for picnics, barbecues, or any summer gathering. Packed with fresh vegetables, herbs, and a light dressing, it’s a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 ounces pasta (penne, rotini, or your choice)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1 cup bell peppers, diced (any color)
- 1/2 cup red onion, diced
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, cubed or balls
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell peppers, red onion, black olives, mozzarella, and fresh basil.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss gently to combine.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled.
Notes
- Feel free to add any of your favorite vegetables or proteins to customize your salad.
- For a lighter version, substitute whole grain or gluten-free pasta.
- This salad can be made a day in advance for easy meal prep.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 10
- Category: Salad
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Keywords: summer pasta salad recipes, easy pasta salad, refreshing pasta salad, picnic pasta salad, summer recipes