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Fresh Make-Ahead Zesty Pasta Salad Recipe Perfect for Crowds

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A fresh, tangy, and easy-to-make pasta salad that tastes better the next day, perfect for potlucks, picnics, and large gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450 g) rotini or penne pasta
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup cucumber, diced
  • 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
  • 1/3 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup shredded carrot (optional)
  • 1/4 cup black olives, sliced (optional)
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta or shredded Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 1 pound (450 g) of rotini or penne pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually 9-11 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  2. Drain the pasta in a colander and rinse briefly under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down. Shake off excess water.
  3. While the pasta cooks, halve 1 cup cherry tomatoes, dice 1 cup cucumber, 1/2 cup red bell pepper, mince 1/3 cup red onion, and shred 1/2 cup carrot if using. Slice 1/4 cup black olives if desired. Chop 1/4 cup fresh parsley finely.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil, 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon honey, 1 minced garlic clove, 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano, salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if using. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, chopped vegetables, and fresh parsley. Pour the dressing over and toss gently but thoroughly to coat evenly. Fold in 1/2 cup crumbled feta or shredded Parmesan cheese if using.
  6. Cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour, preferably 3-4 hours or overnight to let flavors meld.
  7. Before serving, give the salad a quick toss and taste for seasoning. Add salt or lemon juice if needed. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

Do not overcook pasta; rinse with cold water after draining to prevent mushiness. Use a sharp knife for crisp veggies. Whisk dressing thoroughly to emulsify. Chill salad for several hours or overnight for best flavor. Adjust seasoning before serving. Variations include adding proteins like grilled chicken or chickpeas, swapping herbs, or using gluten-free pasta.

Nutrition

Keywords: pasta salad, make-ahead salad, zesty pasta salad, crowd-pleaser, summer salad, potluck recipe, easy pasta salad

Find it online: https://twinkletaste.com/fresh-make-ahead-zesty-pasta-salad-recipe-perfect-for-crowds/