Description
Chilled pasta salad for the pool is the ultimate summer delight, bursting with fresh flavors and vibrant colors. This easy-to-make dish features al dente pasta tossed with crisp vegetables and a tangy dressing, making it perfect for hot days by the water. Whether served as a side or a main course, this salad promises to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Enjoy the refreshing crunch and customize it with your favorite ingredients for an unforgettable taste experience.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz rotini or penne pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1 cup bell peppers, diced (mixed colors)
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Drain and rinse under cold water.
- While pasta cooks, chop cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell peppers, and red onion into bite-sized pieces.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until combined.
- In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta with chopped vegetables. Drizzle with dressing and toss gently until evenly coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour before serving to allow flavors to meld.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side
- Method: Cold Preparation
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg