Cold Pasta Salad Vegetables Vinaigrette (Printable Version)

Tender pasta, crisp veggies, and zesty vinaigrette create a refreshing chilled dish, ideal for picnics or potlucks.

# What You'll Need:

→ Salad

01 - 340 g pasta (rotini, penne, or bow ties)
02 - 240 ml cherry tomatoes, halved
03 - 130 g cucumber, diced
04 - 110 g red bell pepper, diced
05 - 80 g red onion, thinly sliced
06 - 70 g black olives, sliced
07 - 40 g shredded carrots
08 - 15 g fresh parsley or basil, chopped

→ Optional Add-Ins

09 - 65 g feta cheese or mozzarella pearls
10 - 85 g cooked chickpeas or grilled chicken

→ Vinaigrette

11 - 80 ml olive oil
12 - 45 ml red wine vinegar or lemon juice
13 - 5 g Dijon mustard
14 - 1 clove garlic, minced
15 - 1 g dried oregano
16 - Salt, to taste
17 - Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

# Steps To Follow:

01 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente according to package directions. Drain thoroughly and rinse under cold water to cool. Set aside.
02 - Chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, black olives, carrots, and fresh herbs. Combine all prepared vegetables and herbs in a large glass mixing bowl.
03 - In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar or lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
04 - Add the cooled pasta to the bowl with the vegetables and herbs. Pour in the vinaigrette. Toss thoroughly to coat all ingredients evenly. Adjust seasoning as desired.
05 - Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Before serving, toss the salad gently again. Serve chilled in a clear glass bowl for presentation.

# Notes and Tips:

01 - This salad is best enjoyed freshly made and chilled. Pair with crusty bread or grilled meats for a complete meal.