Nothing says summer like a delightful pasta salad that is perfect for picnics, backyard barbecues, or a light lunch. This Pasta Salad with Cheese recipe combines the creamy goodness of cheese with the freshness of vegetables, all mixed with tender pasta and a zesty dressing. It’s a versatile dish that can be customized to your tastes and makes for a satisfying meal on its own or as a side dish. Let’s get started on creating this colorful and flavorful pasta salad that will become a favorite in your recipe collection.
**Pasta Salad With Cheese**
**Ingredients:**
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (such as fusilli, penne, or bow tie)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 English cucumber, diced
– 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
– 1/4 cup black olives, sliced
– 1/2 cup cubed cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite)
– 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
**For the dressing:**
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Let it cool completely.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to make the dressing. Adjust seasoning to taste.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and cooled pasta with the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, black olives, cheese, and fresh basil.
4. Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss gently to ensure everything is coated evenly.
5. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the pasta salad chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. Before serving, give the pasta salad a final toss and taste for seasoning. Adjust with additional salt and pepper if needed.
7. Garnish with some extra chopped basil before serving. Enjoy this refreshing Pasta Salad with Cheese as a light meal or a side dish with your favorite grilled proteins.
Whether you’re planning a summer gathering or simply craving a flavorful and satisfying meal, this Pasta Salad with Cheese is a versatile dish that will surely impress your taste buds. The combination of colorful vegetables, creamy cheese, and zesty dressing makes this pasta salad a winner for any occasion. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients to suit your preferences and make this recipe your own. Bon appétit!
