Summer Pasta Salad: Italian Herb and Veggie
Bright and flavorful Summer Pasta Salad featuring crisp vegetables, fresh basil, and Italian herbs, perfect for hot days and busy weeknights.
Refresh your mealtime with this vibrant Summer Pasta Salad: Italian Herb and Veggie that combines fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs, perfect for hot days and busy weeknights.
Summer Pasta Salad: Italian Herb and Veggie
- Quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Packed with fresh veggies and flavorful herbs, it’s a feast for both the eyes and the palate.
- Versatile and customizable, accommodating a variety of dietary preferences.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces of pasta: Any pasta of your choice (fusilli or rotini work well!)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes: Halved for a burst of flavor.
- 1 medium cucumber: Diced for crunch.
- 1 bell pepper: Diced, for sweetness.
- 1/2 cup black olives: Sliced, to add a salty kick.
- 1/4 cup red onion: Finely chopped, for depth of flavor.
- 1/4 cup fresh basil: Chopped, for an aromatic lift.
- 1 tablespoon dried Italian herbs: A blend of oregano, thyme, and rosemary.
- 1/3 cup olive oil: For richness.
- Salt and pepper: To taste.
How to Make
To create your Summer Pasta Salad, start by boiling the pasta according to the package instructions. Once al dente, drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. While the pasta cools, chop your cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, olives, and onion. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with the prepared veggies. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle the dried Italian herbs, and season with salt and pepper. Toss everything together until well mixed, then fold in the chopped basil gently. Chill for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld before serving!
Tips
- Feel free to add grilled chicken or chickpeas for added protein.
- Experiment with seasonal vegetables for a change in flavor.
- For extra creaminess, you can mix in feta or mozzarella cheese.
Make-Ahead
This salad is perfect for making ahead of time! Prepare it a day before, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge. The flavors develop beautifully overnight.
Storing
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s ideal for lunch the next day!
Freezing
We do not recommend freezing this pasta salad, as the texture of the vegetables can change. Enjoy it fresh!
Reheating
This salad is meant to be served cold or at room temperature. Simply take it out of the fridge, and it’s ready to go!
Serving Suggestions
Serve this refreshing pasta salad alongside grilled meats or fish, or as a standalone vegetarian meal. It pairs wonderfully with a glass of white wine on a warm summer evening.
For kitchen essentials, check out this high-quality pasta maker to enjoy homemade pasta anytime!
Related Recipes
Ingredients
- 8 ounces pasta (fusilli or rotini recommended)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 medium cucumber, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1 tablespoon dried Italian herbs
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Boil pasta
Boil pasta according to package directions. Drain and rinse under cold water.
Chop vegetables
Chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, olives, and red onion.
Combine ingredients
In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta with chopped vegetables.
Season
Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle dried Italian herbs, and season with salt and pepper; toss gently.
Chill and serve
Chill for 30 minutes before serving to let flavors meld.
Nutrition Facts
Frequently asked questions
Can I customize the vegetables in this pasta salad?
Yes, it's versatile. Use seasonal veggies or add chickpeas or grilled chicken for extra protein.
How should I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Can this be made ahead?
Yes. Prepare and chill the salad up to a day ahead; toss before serving.
Is this suitable for dietary preferences?
This recipe is naturally vegetarian. To make it vegan, use olive oil and ensure no cheese is added.
What should I serve with this salad?
Pair with grilled chicken, fish, or bread for a complete meal.
