There’s so much to adore about Fresh & Flavorful Pasta Salad. Here’s why it’s a must-try:

1. Light and Refreshing : Perfect for warm weather or when you want something satisfying but not heavy.
2. Packed with Flavor : The combination of fresh veggies, herbs, and a tangy dressing makes every bite exciting.
3. Customizable : Add your favorite proteins, cheeses, or veggies to suit your taste.
4. Make-Ahead Friendly : Tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prep or parties.
5. Crowd-Pleasing : Whether you’re feeding family, friends, or guests, everyone will love this vibrant dish.

---

Ingredients You’ll Need

The secret to this pasta salad lies in its fresh, high-quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Salad:

• 8 oz pasta (penne, fusilli, or farfalle work well)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
• 1 cucumber (diced)
• 1 bell pepper (chopped; any color works!)
• 1/2 red onion (finely diced)
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or feta for a tangy twist)
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped)
• Optional : 1 cup cooked chicken, salami, or chickpeas for added protein

For the Dressing:

• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar (or balsamic vinegar for sweetness)
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option)
• 1 clove garlic (minced)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

---

Step-by-Step Instructions

Ready to whip up this vibrant, flavorful salad? Follow these easy steps:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
2. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Let it cool completely.

Step 2: Prep the Vegetables

1. While the pasta cools, chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, and red onion.
2. If using fresh herbs like parsley, chop them finely for added freshness.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, chopped vegetables, shredded cheese, and optional protein (like chicken or chickpeas).
2. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine, ensuring everything is evenly coated.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

1. Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
2. Before serving, give the salad a final toss and garnish with additional fresh herbs if desired.