Pasta salad with vegetables

Pasta Salad with Vegetables - a simple and delicious recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Pasta salad with vegetables is a perfect choice for hot summer days or for a quick and healthy lunch. This versatile dish can be served as an appetizer, side dish, or even as a main course. Here’s how to make a pasta salad with vegetables that will impress with its colors and textures.

Ingredients:

- 300 g pasta (spaghetti, fusilli, or penne)
- 200 g carrots (about 2 medium carrots)
- 150 g peas (fresh or frozen)
- 1 bell pepper (any color for a vibrant look)
- 1 small red onion
- 1 zucchini
- 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar (or lemon juice)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley leaves for garnish

Preparation:

1. Start by preparing the vegetables. Peel the carrots and cut them into small cubes or rounds. If using frozen peas, there’s no need to thaw them beforehand. Wash the bell pepper and cut it into cubes. The zucchini should be washed and sliced thinly. Peel and finely chop the red onion.

2. In a large pot, add water and a pinch of salt. Bring the water to a boil, then add the carrots and zucchini. Boil the vegetables for 5 minutes. Then add the peas and continue boiling for another 2-3 minutes. The vegetables should be slightly crunchy, not overcooked.

3. In another pot, add salted water and cook the pasta according to the package instructions, usually between 8-10 minutes. When the pasta is al dente, drain it and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process.

4. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, drained vegetables, red onion, and bell pepper.

5. Prepare the dressing: in a small bowl, mix the olive oil with balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper to taste. Pour the dressing over the salad and mix well to combine all the ingredients.

6. Let the salad rest for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Serving and variations:

This pasta salad with vegetables can be served warm or cold, making it ideal for picnics or festive meals. For an extra burst of flavor, you can add feta cheese or grated parmesan. Also, if you want a vegetarian option, substitute the pasta with quinoa or rice.

For a more intense flavor, you can add kalamata olives or toasted nuts. If you prefer a creamier dressing, try replacing the olive oil with Greek yogurt.

Enjoy this pasta salad with vegetables as a healthy and colorful dish, perfect for any occasion. Bon appétit!

 Ingredients: 400 g vegetable mix, 200 g pasta, 1 tablespoon olive oil, 200 g green olives with peppers, 100 g pressed ham, 2-3 garlic cloves, 1 onion, 150 g sour cream, 100 g cheese, parsley/dill, salt, pepper