pasta salad

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 8

Ingredients

Salad

• 12 ounces pasta (rotini, fusilli, or bow tie)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup cucumber, diced
• 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
• 1/2 cup yellow bell pepper, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Dressing

• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta:
   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool. Set aside.
2. Prepare the Vegetables:
   • While the pasta is cooking, prepare the vegetables: halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber, red bell pepper, and yellow bell pepper, finely chop the red onion, and slice the black olives.
3. Make the Dressing:
   • In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, dried oregano, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
4. Combine Ingredients:
   • In a large bowl, combine the cooked and cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red and yellow bell peppers, red onion, black olives, feta cheese, and chopped parsley.
5. Dress the Salad:
   • Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss to coat evenly.
6. Chill and Serve:
   • Cover the pasta salad and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 300
• Protein: 7g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Cholesterol: 10mg
• Sodium: 350mg
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 3g

This classic pasta salad is perfect for picnics, potlucks, or as a refreshing side dish for any meal. Enjoy!