When the weather warms up and you’re looking for a light and refreshing dish that’s bursting with flavor, Newman’s Own Pasta Salad is a go-to recipe that never fails. This vibrant and colorful salad is a perfect blend of tangy, savory, and fresh ingredients that will tantalize your taste buds with every bite. Whether you’re enjoying a picnic in the park or hosting a backyard gathering, this pasta salad is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Let’s dive into the recipe and get ready to create a delicious dish that will become a staple in your summer menu rotation.
Newman’s Own Pasta Salad
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pasta of your choice (such as fusilli or penne)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 English cucumber, diced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
– 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
– 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
For the dressing:
– 1/3 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it is al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Allow it to cool completely.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, black olives, parsley, basil, and feta cheese.
3. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
4. Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetable mixture. Gently toss everything together until the pasta and vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing.
5. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the pasta salad for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. Before serving, give the pasta salad a final toss and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
7. Garnish with a few extra basil leaves and a sprinkle of feta cheese for an extra pop of color and flavor.
With its colorful medley of fresh vegetables, tangy feta cheese, and zesty dressing, Newman’s Own Pasta Salad is a versatile dish that pairs well with grilled meats, seafood, or can stand alone as a satisfying meal. This recipe is easily customizable, so feel free to add your favorite ingredients such as grilled chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, or artichoke hearts to make it your own.
So, the next time you’re in need of a quick and delicious dish to enjoy on a sunny day, give Newman’s Own Pasta Salad a try. You’ll love how the flavors come together to create a delightful summer sensation that will keep you coming back for more. Bon appétit!
