Simple Italian Pasta Salad Recipe

Serving size: 6 servings Cooking time: 20 minutes

If you're looking for a refreshing and delicious way to enjoy pasta, look no further than this simple Italian pasta salad. This dish is perfect for summertime picnics or casual dinner parties because it's easy to prepare and always garners rave reviews from guests. The key ingredients in this recipe include penne pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, black olives, red onion, and a homemade vinaigrette dressing.

Begin by boiling the penne according to package instructions until al dente. While the pasta is cooking, prepare all other ingredients mentioned above. Once your pasta has reached the desired texture, drain it thoroughly in a colander, then transfer it into a large bowl. Next, add the halved cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumber, pitted black olives, and thinly sliced red onion to the bowl.

While everything is being prepared, let’s talk about the dressing that brings all these elements together. To make the vinaigrette, whisk together 1/4 cup of olive oil, 2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar, a tablespoon of Dijon mustard, and 1 teaspoon of sugar. This mixture not only adds flavor but also serves as an excellent binder for the ingredients in your salad.

• Step-by-step guide: Pour half of this dressing into the bowl with pasta and vegetables
• Mix gently until all components are well coated
• Add remaining dressing, adjust seasoning if necessary (salt and pepper to taste)

Once everything is combined properly, you can let your salad sit for about 10 minutes. During this time period, the flavors meld nicely allowing for an even more delicious outcome when served cold.

A note on portion sizes - six servings should be ample for a small group of friends or as part of a larger meal plan where it could accompany other dishes like grilled chicken breast or roasted vegetables. For those who love to experiment in the kitchen, there are many variations you can try such as adding more protein sources like cooked shrimp or chopped chicken into this classic Italian pasta salad.

To elevate your cooking experience further, here's a quick tip: If using cherry tomatoes that are particularly juicy, consider draining them briefly before incorporating into the salad. This prevents any excess moisture from making your dish overly wet after combining with the dressing. Similarly, slicing cucumbers lengthwise into thin rounds rather than cutting them into cubes can help reduce potential watery content.

Another fun twist could involve experimenting with different types of greens such as arugula or watercress which might add a bit more bite and freshness to complement the sweetness provided by the other ingredients. You may also consider adding some Parmesan cheese shavings on top just before serving; it adds an extra layer of flavor without significantly altering its simplicity.

So next time you find yourself craving something light yet satisfying, why not give this simple Italian pasta salad a try? Not only does it provide a delightful burst of colors and flavors on your plate but also offers numerous health benefits thanks to its high fiber content along with vitamins A, C, K among others. Plus, it's incredibly versatile enough to cater to various dietary preferences whether you're vegetarian or simply seeking something fresh amidst busy schedules.