Primavera Pasta Salad

Description:

This Primavera Pasta Salad is a vibrant and fresh dish bursting with colorful vegetables and a light, zesty dressing. Perfect for a picnic, potluck, or as a side dish, the pasta is complemented by crunchy vegetables like bell peppers, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a hint of fresh basil. It’s a simple, healthy, and refreshing meal that’s both satisfying and full of flavor, ideal for warmer weather or any time you want to enjoy a light and fresh salad.

Origin:

The term “primavera” means “spring” in Italian, and this dish is a celebration of fresh, seasonal vegetables. The combination of pasta and spring vegetables is an Italian classic, often served as a light, fresh dish during the spring and summer months.

Ingredients:

For the pasta salad:

• 1 lb (450g) pasta (rotini, penne, or fusilli works best)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced thinly
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced thinly
• 1 cucumber, sliced
• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup (60g) fresh mozzarella cheese, cubed (optional)
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (or parsley, if preferred)
• 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved (optional)

For the dressing:

• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tbsp red wine vinegar (or lemon juice for a fresher twist)
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 tsp honey (optional, for a touch of sweetness)

Optional Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for an extra flavor boost)
• 1/2 cup roasted or grilled chicken, diced (for a more filling salad)
• 1/2 cup artichoke hearts (marinated or fresh)
• 1/4 cup pine nuts or walnuts for added crunch

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta:
   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente (usually about 8-10 minutes). Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta.
   • Set the pasta aside to cool completely.
2. Prepare the vegetables:
   • While the pasta is cooling, prepare your vegetables. Slice the bell peppers, cucumber, onion, and halve the cherry tomatoes.
   • If using olives or other optional ingredients like roasted chicken or artichokes, prepare those as well.
3. Make the dressing:
   • In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, honey (if using), and salt and pepper. Adjust the seasoning to taste. You can also add a splash of lemon juice for extra brightness.
4. Assemble the pasta salad:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with the prepared vegetables, fresh mozzarella (if using), and fresh herbs.
   • Pour the dressing over the salad and toss everything together gently until well coated. If adding Parmesan cheese or roasted chicken, fold those in as well.
5. Chill and serve:
   • Let the pasta salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. You can also prepare it a few hours ahead for even better flavor.
   • Before serving, give it one last gentle toss and taste to adjust the seasoning if necessary.

Tips for Success:

• Customize the vegetables: Feel free to mix and match your favorite veggies. Zucchini, snap peas, or carrots are great additions!
• Don’t overcook the pasta: Make sure your pasta is al dente for the best texture in the salad. Overcooked pasta can become mushy when chilled.
• Dress the salad just before serving: If you’re making this salad in advance, hold off on adding the dressing until right before serving to prevent the pasta from absorbing too much and losing its flavor.
• Make it creamy: For a creamy twist, you can substitute some of the olive oil in the dressing with a couple of tablespoons of mayonnaise or Greek yogurt.

Recommendations:

• This pasta salad is perfect for BBQs, picnics, or potlucks. Serve it alongside grilled meats or as a light lunch on its own.
• Add some grilled shrimp or marinated chicken for a more substantial meal.

Nutrition (per serving, based on 6 servings):

• Calories: 250 kcal
• Protein: 7g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated fat: 2g
• Cholesterol: 10mg
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 250mg

(Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on ingredient brands and portion sizes.)