Pasta Salad With Herb Dressing

When it comes to easy and delightful summer meals, pasta salad with herb dressing takes center stage. This versatile dish not only satisfies your taste buds but also offers a burst of vibrant colors and textures. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, attending a potluck, or simply craving a light and refreshing meal, this pasta salad is the perfect go-to option.

The Base: Choose Your Pasta Wisely The first step in crafting the perfect pasta salad is selecting the right pasta. Opt for shapes that can trap the delicious herb dressing, such as fusilli, rotini, or farfalle. These pasta varieties not only add visual appeal but also ensure that each bite is coated in the flavorful dressing.

Fresh and Colorful Vegetables: The key to a visually stunning and nutritious pasta salad is incorporating a variety of fresh vegetables. Think cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, and red onions. Not only do these veggies add a pop of color, but they also contribute essential vitamins and minerals, making your pasta salad a wholesome and well-rounded dish.

Protein Power: To make your pasta salad more filling, consider adding protein-packed ingredients. Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas are excellent choices. These additions not only enhance the salad’s nutritional profile but also create a more satisfying meal for those seeking a heartier option.

The Star of the Show: Herb Dressing The secret to elevating your pasta salad lies in the herb dressing. Create a tantalizing blend of fresh basil, parsley, oregano, and chives. Combine them with extra virgin olive oil, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, and a splash of balsamic vinegar. This herb-infused dressing adds layers of flavor, making each bite a culinary delight.

Tips for a Flavorful Herb Dressing:

1. Use fresh herbs for a vibrant taste.
2. Adjust the ratio of oil to vinegar for your preferred level of acidity.
3. Let the dressing sit for a while to allow the flavors to meld before tossing it with the pasta.

Assembly and Presentation: Once your pasta is cooked to al dente perfection and your ingredients are prepped, it’s time to assemble the salad. Toss the pasta, vegetables, and protein together in a large bowl. Drizzle the herb dressing over the mixture and gently toss until everything is evenly coated.

For an extra touch of elegance, garnish your pasta salad with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of pine nuts or sunflower seeds. Serve it in a stylish bowl or platter to enhance the visual appeal.

Pasta Salad with Herb Dressing Recipe

Ingredients:

For the Pasta Salad:

• 1 pound (450g) pasta (fusilli, rotini, or farfalle)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1 bell pepper (any color), diced
• 1/2 red onion, finely sliced
• 1 cup grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas (optional)
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish)
• Pine nuts or sunflower seeds (for garnish)

For the Herb Dressing:

• 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:
   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
   • Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.
   • Drain and rinse the pasta under cold water to stop the cooking process.
2. Prepare the Herb Dressing:
   • In a blender or food processor, combine the chopped basil, parsley, oregano, chives, minced garlic, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper.
   • Blend until smooth and well combined. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
3. Assemble the Pasta Salad:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, and your choice of protein (if using).
   • Drizzle the herb dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
4. Chill and Let the Flavors Mingle:
   • Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Garnish and Serve:
   • Before serving, garnish the pasta salad with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of pine nuts or sunflower seeds.
   • Serve the pasta salad chilled in a stylish bowl or platter.
6. Enjoy!
   • Serve this refreshing pasta salad with herb dressing as a light and satisfying meal for any occasion. It’s perfect for picnics, potlucks, or as a delicious side dish for your summer gatherings. Enjoy the burst of flavors in every bite!