Pasta Salad with Fresh Vegetables
A light and refreshing cold pasta salad perfect for summer lunches or as a side dish. Tender pasta pairs nicely with crisp vegetables dressed in creamy salad sauce.
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This simple pasta salad comes together in under 30 minutes and can be served immediately or chilled for later. Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or proteins to make it your own.
Ingredients
penne or macaroni pasta
200 grams
cucumber
1 medium
cherry tomatoes
6-8 pieces
lettuce leaves
4-5 leaves
salad dressing or mayonnaise
3-4 tablespoons
salt
a pinch
olive oil
1 teaspoon (optional)
Instructions
1
Cook the pasta
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until tender but still firm. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool quickly.
2
Prep the vegetables
While the pasta cooks, wash all vegetables. Slice the cucumber into thin rounds. Cut the tomatoes in half or into quarters. Tear the lettuce into bite-sized pieces.
3
Combine and dress
In a large bowl, add the cooled pasta, cucumber rounds, tomato pieces, and torn lettuce. Drizzle with salad dressing, add a pinch of salt, and toss everything gently until well coated. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4
Serve or chill
Serve immediately at room temperature, or cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to let flavors meld. This salad keeps well in the fridge for up to 2 days.
