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A vibrant healthy summer pasta salad with fresh vegetables and herbs in a bowl.

Best way to grow your healthy summer pasta salad

This refreshing pasta salad is packed with vibrant summer vegetables and a light dressing, making it a perfect healthy and satisfying meal for warm weather. It's easy to prepare and can be customized with your favorite produce.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 8 ounces pasta
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1 medium cucumber diced
  • 1 medium bell pepper diced (any color)
  • 0.25 cup red onion thinly sliced
  • 0.5 cup feta cheese crumbled (optional)
Dressing
  • 0.25 cup olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 clove garlic minced
  • 0.5 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 0.25 teaspoon salt
  • 0.125 teaspoon black pepper

Equipment

  • large pot
  • colander
  • large bowl
  • small bowl
  • whisk

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente, then drain and rinse with cold water to cool completely.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked and cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, and red onion.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper for the dressing.
Assembly
  1. Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetable mixture, tossing gently to ensure everything is evenly coated.
  2. If using, gently fold in the crumbled feta cheese.
  3. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Notes

For added protein, consider adding grilled chicken or chickpeas. You can also customize the vegetables based on what's in season or your personal preference, such as adding corn, olives, or fresh herbs like basil or parsley.