Description
A refreshing and flavorful pasta salad packed with crisp vegetables and tossed in a zesty dressing, perfect for summer gatherings.
Ingredients
- For the Pasta
- 8 oz short pasta (your favorite variety)
- For the Vegetables
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup bell pepper, chopped
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- For the Dressing
- 1/2 cup Italian dressing
- 1 tsp garlic powder
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta: Boil water in a large pot, add pasta, and cook according to package instructions. Drain and let cool completely.
2. Combine the Vegetables: In a large bowl, mix cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, bell pepper, and black olives.
3. Mix in the Pasta: Add the cooled pasta to the vegetable mixture and gently toss to combine.
4. Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together Italian dressing and garlic powder.
5. Pour and Toss: Drizzle dressing over the salad and toss until evenly coated.
6. Chill: Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving for best flavor.
Notes
Optional: Top with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for extra freshness.
For added protein, mix in grilled chicken, tuna, or chickpeas.
Best served chilled and can be made ahead for convenience.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 0mg