Continental Pasta Salad
There's something special about a pasta salad that captures the flavors of a cozy home kitchen. One delightful dish that brings together the essence of comfort and elegance is the Continental Pasta Salad. Bursting with colorful veggies, savory meats, and a zesty dressing, this salad is a symphony of flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing. Perfect for a light lunch, a cozy picnic, or a side dish for a gathering, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your cooking repertoire.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Cook the bowtie pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
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In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper to make the dressing. Adjust the seasoning to your taste preference.
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, black olives, red onion, salami, mozzarella cheese, and basil.
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Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and gently toss everything together until well combined and evenly coated with the dressing.
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Cover the bowl and refrigerate the pasta salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
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When ready to serve, give the salad a final toss to refresh the flavors. You can adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
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Garnish with additional fresh basil before serving to add a pop of color and herbal aroma.
Nutrition Facts
Serving size: 1 serving (about 1.5 cups)- Calories
- 420 kcal
- Total Fat
- 25 g
- Saturated Fat
- 7 g
- Cholesterol
- 30 mg
- Sodium
- 700 mg
- Total Carbohydrate
- 30 g
- Dietary Fiber
- 4 g
- Sugars
- 6 g
- Protein
- 15 g
This Continental Pasta Salad is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with grilled chicken or fish for a heartier meal. It's also a great dish to prepare in advance for busy weeknights or a leisurely weekend gathering. The combination of fresh vegetables, flavorful meats, and a tangy dressing makes it a fulfilling and refreshing option for any occasion. Try this recipe and let its flavors transport you to a charming European cafe right in your own home. Enjoy the simplicity and elegance of this Continental Pasta Salad!