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Retro Pasta Salad

Retro Pasta Salad: A Nostalgic Twist on Classic Flavors

Enjoy a light and refreshing Retro Pasta Salad, a perfect blend of flavors and vibrant colors for any gathering.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 8 oz Pasta Gluten-free options work well too.
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes Mixed colors for visual appeal.
  • 1 cup Cucumbers English cucumbers preferred.
  • 1 cup Bell Peppers Mix of red, yellow, and green.
  • 1/2 medium Red Onion Soak in water to mellow flavor.
  • 1/2 cup Olives Kalamata or green olives.
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Nutritional yeast as a dairy-free option.
For the Dressing
  • 1/4 cup Olive Oil Extra virgin preferred.
  • 2 tbsp Red Wine Vinegar Balsamic can be used as an alternative.
  • 1 tbsp Dijon Mustard Whole grain is a good texture option.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Minced; roasted garlic for sweetness.
  • 1 tbsp Italian Herbs A blend of oregano, basil, and thyme.
  • to taste Salt & Pepper Essential for seasoning.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Medium Bowl
  • large mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Tongs

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Prepare a large pot of salted water and bring it to a boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. Wash and chop fresh vegetables. Slice cherry tomatoes, dice cucumbers, and chop bell peppers. Soak red onion slices in cold water for 10 minutes. Add all veggies to a large mixing bowl.
  3. Whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic in a medium bowl. Season with salt and pepper, and add Italian herbs.
  4. Combine the cooled pasta with the chopped vegetables in the large bowl. Add olives and grated Parmesan cheese, and mix gently.
  5. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss to coat all ingredients evenly. Adjust seasoning as needed.
  6. Cover and chill the salad in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving. Serve cold or at room temperature, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 8gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 5mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

For best results, dress the salad just before serving to maintain veggie crispness. Add proteins like chicken or chickpeas for a heartier meal.

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