Print

Fresh Zesty Cold Pasta Salad

fresh zesty cold pasta salad - featured image
Print Recipe

A quick and easy cold pasta salad with a bright lemony dressing, crisp veggies, and fresh herbs, perfect for summer gatherings and picnics.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces rotini or penne pasta
  • 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (from 1 large lemon)
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • 1 clove garlic, finely minced or grated
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 medium cucumber, diced
  • 1 small red bell pepper, diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped (optional)
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Optional add-ins: Kalamata olives, feta cheese, grilled chicken

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces of pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and cool the pasta. Set aside to drain fully.
  2. While pasta cooks, whisk together 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon honey, and 1 minced garlic clove in a medium bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Whisk until the dressing is bright and slightly thickened.
  3. Dice 1 medium cucumber, halve 1 cup cherry tomatoes, dice 1 small red bell pepper, and finely chop 1/4 cup red onion. Chop 1/4 cup fresh basil and 2 tablespoons fresh parsley.
  4. Add the cooled pasta to the bowl with dressing, then toss in the chopped veggies and herbs. Mix gently but thoroughly to coat everything evenly.
  5. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed.
  6. Optional: Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to let flavors meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

Do not overcook the pasta; it should be tender but still firm to hold up well when chilled. Rinse pasta under cold water to stop cooking and prevent sticking. Toss pasta with dressing while still slightly warm for better flavor absorption. Chilling the salad for at least 30 minutes enhances flavor melding but it can be served immediately. Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for best taste. Adjust dressing quantity to avoid sogginess.

Nutrition

Keywords: pasta salad, cold pasta salad, summer side dish, lemon pasta salad, easy pasta salad, picnic recipe, quick pasta salad

Find it online: https://cooltastes.com/fresh-zesty-cold-pasta-salad-recipe-easy-5-minute-summer-side-dish/