Welcome to our kitchen, where we’re about to embark on a culinary journey with our delightful Primavera Pasta Salad recipe. This vibrant and refreshing salad is a celebration of springtime flavors, combining tender pasta with an array of fresh vegetables and zesty dressing. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or as a light and satisfying meal on its own, this Primavera Pasta Salad is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
The term “primavera” translates to “spring” in Italian, and this pasta salad pays homage to the abundance of fresh produce that comes with the arrival of the season. While pasta salads have been enjoyed for centuries, the Primavera Pasta Salad as we know it today is a modern interpretation that highlights the vibrant colors and flavors of seasonal vegetables. With its crisp textures and bright, tangy dressing, it’s the perfect dish to usher in the warmer months and celebrate the bounty of the season.
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces pasta (such as fusilli or rotini)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1 cup bell peppers (assorted colors), diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
Dressing Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Transfer the pasta to a large mixing bowl.
2. Prepare Vegetables
While the pasta is cooking, prepare the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell peppers, red onion, black olives, fresh basil, fresh parsley, and feta cheese. Add them to the bowl with the cooked pasta.
3. Make Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the extra-virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.
4. Toss Salad
Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetables, tossing gently to coat everything evenly.
5. Chill
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. Serve
Once chilled, give the salad a final toss and transfer it to a serving platter. Garnish with additional fresh herbs, if desired. Serve cold and enjoy the vibrant flavors of this delicious Primavera Pasta Salad!
Conclusion
There you have it, a delightful Primavera Pasta Salad that’s perfect for any occasion. With its colorful array of vegetables, tangy dressing, and tender pasta, this salad is sure to impress. So gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a taste of springtime freshness!