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Quick and Easy Pasta Salad

Quick and Easy Pasta Salad

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Quick and Easy Pasta Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish perfect for any occasion, from summer picnics to cozy family dinners. This versatile salad showcases a delightful mix of fresh vegetables and hearty pasta, all tossed in a zesty dressing that enhances the flavors beautifully. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s not only quick to prepare but also allows for endless customization based on your pantry staples or seasonal ingredients. Whether served as a main dish or a side, this pasta salad promises to be a crowd-pleaser that you can enjoy any time of the year.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound dried pasta (fusilli, penne, rotini, or farfalle)
  • 1 cup sliced bell pepper
  • 1 cup thinly sliced zucchini
  • 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes
  • 1/3 cup thinly sliced green onions
  • 1/4 cup sliced pepperoncini (optional)
  • 1 cup halved mixed olives
  • 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (chopped)
  • 1/3 cup fresh parsley or basil (optional)
  • 1/3 cup apple vinegar or white grape juice vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 2 to 3 tablespoons juice from pepperoncini jar (optional)
  • 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta in boiling salted water until al dente; drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the vinegar, salt, pepper, oregano, optional pepperoncini juice, and olive oil.
  3. Add the cooled pasta to the dressing and stir to coat.
  4. Fold in the bell pepper, zucchini, tomatoes, green onions, olives, cheese, mozzarella balls, and herbs.
  5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve immediately or refrigerate for at least 30 minutes for enhanced flavor.

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