Refreshing pasta salad
Refreshing curly pasta salad
Dreaming of a quick, light, and flavorful meal? I invite you to discover this curly pasta salad, a recipe that will captivate you with its delicate texture and combination of fresh ingredients. It's perfect for hot summer days or as a side dish to a juicy steak. With a fresh taste and a hint of creaminess, this salad is sure to become one of your favorites!
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 4
Ingredients
- 200 g curly pasta (or any preferred type)
- 250 g white cabbage, finely chopped
- 200 g cherry tomatoes, halved
- 100 g ham, thinly sliced
- 1 egg
- 200 ml oil (preferably sunflower or olive)
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- Juice of 1 lemon
- A bunch of dill, finely chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Step-by-step preparation
1. Boiling the pasta
Put water in a large pot and add a teaspoon of salt. Bring the water to a boil and add the curly pasta. Boil according to the package instructions (about 8-10 minutes). Make sure they are al dente!
2. Cooling the pasta
After the pasta is cooked, drain it well and rinse it under cold running water. This step is essential to stop the cooking process and maintain the firm texture of the pasta.
3. Preparing the mayonnaise
In a bowl, beat the egg with 200 ml of oil, gradually adding the oil until you achieve a creamy mayonnaise. Add the lemon juice for a touch of acidity and flavor. Optionally, you can add a teaspoon of mustard for a more intense taste.
4. Preparing the ingredients
Cut the white cabbage into thin strips and sprinkle a little salt and pepper over it, mixing well. Let it sit for a few minutes so it softens slightly. Slice the ham into thin pieces and halve the cherry tomatoes.
5. Mixing the salad
In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cabbage, ham, and cherry tomatoes. Pour the mayonnaise over these ingredients and gently mix so that everything is evenly coated. Add the sour cream for extra creaminess and the finely chopped dill, mixing again.
6. Seasoning
Taste the salad and add salt or pepper if necessary. If you want a more intense flavor, you can add a few drops of Worcestershire sauce or a tablespoon of balsamic vinegar.
7. Serving
Serve the salad immediately or let it chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. It tastes even better after the flavors have had time to meld. You can garnish it with a few sprigs of fresh dill and some whole cherry tomatoes for a pleasing visual effect.
Tips and variations
- Telemea cheese: A wonderful idea would be to add some cubes of Telemea cheese, which would provide a salty and creamy note.
- Crunchy vegetables: You can also add grated carrots or sliced cucumbers for an extra crunch and freshness.
- Whole grain pasta: If you want to reduce calories, use whole grain pasta that is higher in fiber.
Nutritional benefits
This salad is not only delicious but also nutritious. The pasta provides carbohydrates that will give you the energy you need throughout the day. White cabbage is rich in vitamin C, and dill is a good source of antioxidants. Ham adds protein, while sour cream and mayonnaise contribute to healthy fat intake.
Frequently asked questions
- Can I use gluten-free pasta? Of course! There are a variety of gluten-free pasta available on the market that work perfectly in this recipe.
- How long does the salad keep? The salad keeps well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, but it's best consumed fresh.
- Can I replace the mayonnaise? If you prefer a lighter version, you can use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise.
Pairing suggestions
This pasta salad pairs perfectly with a glass of fresh lemonade or a dry white wine. It can also be an excellent accompaniment to barbecues or meat dishes.
In conclusion, the refreshing curly pasta salad is an excellent choice for a quick and tasty meal. It is a simple recipe but full of color and flavors that will delight your taste buds. So, get ready to impress your loved ones with this delicious recipe!
Ingredients: 200 g pasta, 250 g white cabbage, cherry tomatoes, 100 g ham, 1 egg, 200 ml oil, 2 tablespoons sour cream, lemon juice, dill, salt, pepper. The quantities are approximate. I was considering adding some cubes of telemea cheese, but I ultimately decided against it. However, I still think it would have been suitable.
