Recipe For Pasta Salad With Spaghetti Noodles
Summer is the perfect time for a refreshing pasta salad. If you're looking for a new recipe to try, why not make a pasta salad with spaghetti noodles? This recipe is easy to make and can be customized to your liking. Plus, it's perfect for a potluck, picnic, or just a simple lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound spaghetti noodles
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, chopped
- 1 cup bell pepper, chopped
- 1/2 cup red onion, chopped
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Begin by cooking the spaghetti noodles according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and rinse the noodles under cold water to stop the cooking process.
- In a large bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, black olives, feta cheese, parsley, and basil.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Add the cooked spaghetti noodles to the bowl with the vegetables and toss to combine.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss to coat.
- Cover and refrigerate the pasta salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Once chilled, give the pasta salad a final toss and serve.
Customization Ideas:
This pasta salad recipe is versatile and can be customized to your liking. Here are some ideas to get you started:
- Instead of cherry tomatoes, try using sun-dried tomatoes for a more intense tomato flavor.
- Swap out the feta cheese for goat cheese or Parmesan for a different flavor profile.
- Add some protein by tossing in some grilled chicken or shrimp.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the meat and add some roasted vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or mushrooms.
- Try using a different type of noodle like fusilli, penne, or bowtie pasta.
Conclusion:
This recipe for pasta salad with spaghetti noodles is a refreshing and delicious option for any summer meal. With its customizable ingredients, you can make it your own and enjoy it all season long. Plus, it's easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time, making it perfect for a busy schedule. Give it a try and see how it becomes a staple in your recipe collection!