Why Make This Recipe
Pasta salad with homemade dressing is a perfect dish for picnics, barbecues, or even a simple meal at home. It is colorful, flavorful, and packed with fresh ingredients. The homemade dressing adds a personal touch, making it tastier than store-bought versions. Plus, it’s easy to customize, so you can add any vegetables or proteins you like!
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 and black pepper to taste
Directions:
- Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions in salted water until al dente (10–12 minutes). Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool for 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 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 the pasta salad chilled as a side dish or a light meal. It pairs well with grilled chicken or seafood and is great for lunchboxes. You can also garnish it with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for an extra touch of flavor.
How to Store Pasta Salad with Homemade Dressing
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The pasta salad can last for about 3-4 days. If it seems dry after sitting in the fridge, you can add a little extra olive oil or dressing before serving.
Tips to Make Pasta Salad with Homemade Dressing
- Choose your favorite pasta shape; rotini holds the dressing well, but you can use penne or fusilli for a different texture.
- Feel free to add more veggies like bell peppers, carrots, or corn for added crunch and flavor.
- For protein, mix in cooked chicken, tuna, or chickpeas to make it more filling.
Variation
You can swap the veggies in this pasta salad based on what’s in season or what you have on hand. Add ingredients like capsicum, spinach, or even fruits like diced apples or grapes for a sweet touch!
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of vinegar?
Yes! You can use apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar if you prefer.
2. Is this salad gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta. There are many options available in stores.
3. Can I make this pasta salad in advance?
Absolutely! It’s even better when made ahead of time, as the flavors have more time to meld together in the refrigerator.
