Cold Pasta Salad Vinaigrette Recipe
Prep Time: 0 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 12
Description
Indulge in the refreshing taste of this Cold Pasta Salad Vinaigrette, a delightful dish that combines vibrant vegetables with perfectly cooked pasta, perfect for summer gatherings or quick weeknight meals. This healthy salad is not only low in cholesterol but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it a fantastic choice for those looking to eat well without spending hours in the kitchen.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 126.4 |
| Total Fat | 4.1 g |
| Saturated Fat | 0.6 g |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg |
| Sodium | 36.4 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 19.1 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.9 g |
| Sugars | 2.9 g |
| Protein | 3.5 g |
Ingredients
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 1/2 | Pasta (your choice) |
| 2 – 3 | Broccoli (florets) |
| 1/2 | Celery (chopped) |
| 1 | Carrot (shredded) |
| 1/2 | Onion (diced) |
| 1 | Green pepper (chopped) |
| 1 | Cucumber (diced) |
| 1/2 | Tomatoes (diced) |
| 1/2 | Black olives (sliced) |
| 1/4 | Red wine vinegar |
| 3 – 4 | Fresh herbs (basil, oregano) |
| NA | Salt (to taste) |
| NA | Fresh ground black pepper (to taste) |
| NA | Vegetable oil (for tossing) |
Instructions
-
Cook the Pasta: Begin by cooking the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain and rinse under cold water. Toss the pasta with 1 teaspoon of vegetable oil to prevent sticking.
-
Prepare the Vegetables: In a steamer basket, steam the broccoli, celery, carrots, onions, and green peppers for about 3 to 5 minutes, just until they are tender-crisp. This allows for optimal flavor and texture. If you prefer more control over the crunch, you can steam the vegetables separately.
-
Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, gently toss together the cooked pasta, steamed vegetables, diced cucumber, tomatoes, and sliced black olives.
-
Add Flavor: Drizzle the mixture with red wine vinegar and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. For an aromatic touch, incorporate fresh herbs such as basil and oregano, which complement the dish beautifully.
-
Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the salad for at least one hour to allow the flavors to meld. When ready to serve, scoop out a generous serving size of approximately 1 cup, and enjoy this refreshing, nutritious dish.
Note
For a variation, feel free to add or substitute any of your favorite vegetables. This Cold Pasta Salad Vinaigrette is versatile, allowing you to tailor it to your personal taste and what you have on hand.
Embrace the ultimate freshness and vibrant flavors of this Cold Pasta Salad Vinaigrette, making it a staple at your next gathering or a quick go-to meal for busy days!
