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A vibrant bowl of healthy summer pasta salad with fresh vegetables and herbs

Best way to grow your healthy summer pasta salad

This easy and healthy pasta salad is perfect for a summer meal or potluck. It’s packed with fresh vegetables and a light dressing, making it a refreshing and satisfying dish.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta Salad
  • 1 pound Penne pasta
  • 2 cups Cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 Cucumber, diced
  • 0.5 cup Red onion, thinly sliced
  • 0.25 cup Fresh basil, chopped
Dressing
  • 0.5 cup Olive oil
  • 0.25 cup Red wine vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 0.5 teaspoon Salt
  • 0.25 teaspoon Black pepper

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Large bowl
  • Small bowl
  • Whisk

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente, then drain and rinse with cold water.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, thinly sliced red onion, and chopped fresh basil.
  3. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper to create the dressing.
Assembly
  1. Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetables, then toss gently to ensure everything is evenly coated.
  2. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the pasta salad for at least 30 minutes, or until chilled and the flavors have melded.

Notes

For extra flavor, you can add grilled chicken or feta cheese to the salad. This pasta salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.