Pasta Salad with Homemade Dressing
Gather the following ingredients for this delightful pasta salad:
For the Salad:
- 12 oz rotini pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- ½ red onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, cubed
- ½ cup black olives, sliced
- ½ cup green bell pepper, chopped
For the Homemade Dressing:
- ½ cup olive oil
- ¼ cup red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions in salted water until al dente (approximately 10–12 minutes).
- Step 2: Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool for about 5 minutes.
- Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, cheddar cheese, olives, and green bell pepper. Toss gently until well mixed (about 5 minutes).
- Step 4: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper until emulsified (about 2 minutes).
- Step 5: Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss well to coat everything evenly (about 2–3 minutes).
- Step 6: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Step 7: Serve chilled and enjoy every refreshing bite!
FAQs
1. Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?
Yes! This pasta salad can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. It allows the flavors to develop further.
2. What can I substitute for rotini pasta?
You can use other types of pasta, like penne or fusilli. Choose whatever you have on hand!
3. Can I add protein to this salad?
Absolutely! Grilled chicken, ham, or chickpeas would be excellent additions for added protein.
4. How long does the pasta salad last in the fridge?
The pasta salad can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before serving.
5. What if I don’t have red wine vinegar?
You can substitute red wine vinegar with apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar for similar results.
Conclusion
The Pasta Salad with Homemade Dressing is a versatile, vibrant, and refreshing dish that’s sure to impress at any gathering. With its quick preparation and customizable ingredients, it’s a meal that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. Add it to your recipe rotation, and you’ll find it’s a delightful choice for any occasion!
