Pasta salads are a staple for outdoor gatherings, picnics, or a simple weeknight dinner. They are versatile, flavorful, and easy to prepare. Today, we’re sharing a delightful recipe for Pasta Salad with Grilled Vegetables that will elevate your next meal with its vibrant colors and delicious combination of flavors. This dish is perfect for warm summer days when you want a light and refreshing meal that doesn’t compromise on taste.
Pasta Salad with Grilled Vegetables
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. fusilli pasta
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
– 1 zucchini, sliced
– 1 yellow squash, sliced
– 1 red onion, sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Cook the fusilli pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
2. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Brush the sliced bell peppers, zucchini, yellow squash, and red onion with olive oil. Season with salt and black pepper.
3. Grill the vegetables for about 5-6 minutes per side or until they have nice grill marks and are slightly tender. Remove from the grill and let them cool slightly.
4. Once the grilled vegetables are cool enough to handle, chop them into bite-sized pieces.
5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, grilled vegetables, chopped basil leaves, and Parmesan cheese.
6. Drizzle with a bit more olive oil and gently toss everything together until the ingredients are well mixed.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
8. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the flavors meld in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
9. Serve the pasta salad chilled or at room temperature. It’s perfect on its own as a light meal or as a side dish alongside grilled chicken or fish.
Pasta Salad with Grilled Vegetables is a wonderfully versatile dish that you can customize based on your preferences. Feel free to add cherry tomatoes, olives, or even some crumbled feta cheese to enhance the flavors even more. This recipe is a great way to enjoy the abundance of summer produce while creating a satisfying meal that everyone will love.
Prepare this simple yet flavorful Pasta Salad with Grilled Vegetables for your next gathering or simply to enjoy a relaxing evening at home. With minimal effort and a burst of colors and flavors, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy the taste of summer with this delicious pasta salad recipe!
