As summer rolls in, there’s nothing quite like a refreshing pasta salad to brighten up your meals. Whether it’s a picnic, a family gathering, or just a cozy dinner at home, pasta salads are the perfect dish that combines vibrant fresh ingredients with a delightful base of pasta. Here are two fantastic pasta salad inspirations that you’ll definitely want to try out this season.
Simple Summer Pasta Salad
This Simple Summer Pasta Salad is a crowd-pleaser and so easy to prepare. It features a medley of colorful vegetables, perfectly cooked pasta, and a light dressing that brings all the flavors together beautifully. Imagine the crunch of fresh cucumbers, the sweetness of cherry tomatoes, and the zing from a sprinkle of feta cheese, all tossed together with your favorite pasta. It’s not just easy on the eyes but also tantalizing for the taste buds.
To make this salad, start by boiling your pasta of choice—farfalle or rotini works wonderfully. Drain and cool. In a large bowl, combine your cooked pasta with diced bell peppers, olives, and any seasonal veggies you have on hand. For the dressing, a simple mix of olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper will do the trick. Toss everything together, and you have a dish that’s sure to impress!
BOWLS – Pasta Salad
Next up is the BOWLS Pasta Salad, which is not only visually appealing but packed with flavors. This salad takes the idea of pasta to the next level with hearty ingredients like roasted vegetables, chickpeas, and a drizzle of tahini dressing. It’s filling enough to be a standalone meal and can easily be customized to fit your taste preferences.
To create this bowl of goodness, start by roasting your choice of vegetables—zucchini, bell peppers, and red onions work beautifully. While they roast, cook your pasta until al dente and rinse it under cold water to keep it fresh and vibrant. In a large bowl, mix the pasta with the roasted veggies and drain a can of chickpeas before adding them as well. Finish it off with your tahini dressing for a creamy, nutty flavor that will leave you wanting more.
These two pasta salad recipes are not just delightful; they are an embodiment of summer, celebrating the flavors of fresh produce. Perfect for any occasion, they can be made ahead of time and served cold, making them ideal for busy days. So get your ingredients ready and enjoy the sunny days with these delicious pasta salads!
