California Pasta Salad
A vibrant and fresh pasta salad featuring crisp vegetables, zesty dressing, and tender pasta, perfect for meal prep or gatherings.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 2 cups Pasta Any type of pasta, whole grain or gluten-free for healthier options.
Fresh Vegetables
- 1 cup Cherry tomatoes Chopped.
- 1 cup Cucumber Chopped.
- 1 cup Bell peppers Chopped.
- 1/2 cup Red onion Chopped.
Dressing
- 1/4 cup Olive oil Adds richness.
- 2 tablespoons Lemon juice Provides a tangy kick.
- to taste Salt and pepper For seasoning.
Instructions
Preparation
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking.
- Chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell peppers, and red onion into bite-sized pieces.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta with the chopped vegetables.
Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
Mix and Serve
- Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetable mixture, tossing gently to combine.
- Adjust seasoning, adding more salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for about 30 minutes to enhance flavors.
Notes
For best results, use seasonal vegetables. Make the salad a day in advance to meld flavors. Store in airtight containers to keep fresh.