Delicious Veggie Pasta Salad Recipe: A Refreshing and Nutritious Dish for Summer Gatherings

_{Keywords: refreshing pasta salad, nutritious veggie salad, summer gathering recipes, vegetarian pasta salad}

Ingredients:

• 8 ounces fusilli pasta (or any other pasta of your choice)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup cucumber, diced
• 1 cup bell peppers, diced (assorted colors for vibrant presentation)
• 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
• 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Dressing:

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

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell peppers, red onion, black olives, feta cheese, and fresh basil leaves. Toss gently to mix.
3. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, dried oregano, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
4. Pour the dressing over the pasta and veggies, and toss well to coat everything evenly.
5. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
6. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
7. Before serving, give the pasta salad a quick toss to redistribute the dressing.
8. Serve the veggie pasta salad as a refreshing and nutritious side dish or as a light main course.

Here are some ideas on what to serve with the veggie pasta salad:

1. Grilled Protein: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu on the side for a complete and satisfying meal.
2. Crusty Bread: Serve the pasta salad with slices of crusty bread or garlic bread to complement the flavors and add some extra texture.
3. Green Salad: Pair the veggie pasta salad with a fresh green salad, such as a mix of leafy greens, avocado, and cherry tomatoes, for a balanced and colorful plate.
4. Summer BBQ: If you’re hosting a summer BBQ, the veggie pasta salad is a great addition to your spread, alongside grilled meats, fresh fruit, and other classic BBQ dishes.

Enjoy this delicious and vibrant veggie pasta salad as a healthy and flavorful addition to any meal or as a standalone dish for a light lunch or dinner. It’s a versatile recipe that can be customized with your favorite veggies and enjoyed year-round.