why make this recipe
Pasta Salad with Homemade Dressing is a delightful dish perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or a simple family meal. This recipe combines colorful vegetables and tasty cheese with a homemade dressing that adds zest to every bite. The best part? It’s easy to make and can be prepared in advance, allowing the flavors to blend beautifully. This salad is not only refreshing but also packed with nutrients, making it a great choice for a light meal or side dish.
how to make Pasta Salad with Homemade Dressing
Ingredients
- 12 oz rotini pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, cubed
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/2 cup green bell pepper, chopped
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
Directions
- Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions in salted water until al dente (10–12 minutes). Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool for about 5 minutes.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, cheddar cheese, olives, and green bell pepper. Toss gently for 5 minutes.
- In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper until emulsified (about 2 minutes).
- Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss well to coat everything evenly (2–3 minutes).
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Serve chilled and enjoy every refreshing bite!
how to serve Pasta Salad with Homemade Dressing
Serve this pasta salad as a side dish at your next gathering or enjoy it as a light lunch. It can be served on its own or paired with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. Garnish with extra olives or cheese for added flavor.
how to store Pasta Salad with Homemade Dressing
To store, keep the pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3 to 5 days. If you’ve made a large batch, you can also divide it into smaller portions for easy grab-and-go meals.
tips to make Pasta Salad with Homemade Dressing
- Make sure to rinse the pasta well after cooking to cool it down and prevent it from sticking together.
- Feel free to customize the salad with your favorite vegetables or add proteins like chicken or shrimp for extra nourishment.
- To make the dressing even more flavorful, let it sit for a few minutes before pouring it over the salad.
variation
You can substitute the rotini pasta with any pasta shape you prefer. Also, try adding different ingredients like bell pepper, corn, or even chickpeas to make it your own.
FAQs
Q: Can I use different types of cheese?
A: Yes, you can use any cheese you like. Feta or mozzarella would be delicious alternatives.
Q: Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
A: Absolutely! It keeps well in the fridge and actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together.
Q: Can I make the dressing in advance?
A: Yes, you can prepare the dressing a few days ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just give it a good shake before using.
