Pasta salad with vegetables

Pasta Salad with Vegetables and Sour Cream - A Quick and Delicious Recipe

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4

Welcome to the culinary world of quick salads! Today, I present to you a recipe that not only comes together in record time but is also bursting with flavor and vibrant colors. The pasta salad with vegetables is perfect for summer meals, picnics, or even as a light and nutritious lunch. Using durum wheat pasta, fresh vegetables, and a creamy sour cream dressing, you'll create a dish that delights both the eyes and the taste buds.

A Brief Story about Pasta Salads

Pasta salads have gained popularity worldwide due to their versatility and speed. Their origins are deeply rooted in the culinary traditions of many cultures, where pasta served cold or warm adds flavor and texture to dishes. These recipes are often adapted based on available ingredients, transforming each salad into a unique experience.

Ingredients

- 200 g farfalle pasta (or other preferred shapes)
- 150 g broccoli (approximately a small piece)
- 1 large carrot
- 1 red bell pepper
- 2 garlic cloves
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chili flakes (optional, for an extra kick)
- Olive oil
- 100 g cherry tomatoes
- A few sprigs of chives or green onions

Nutritional Details

This pasta salad contains carbohydrates from the pasta, vitamins and minerals from the vegetables, as well as healthy fats from the olive oil. It is a balanced meal, rich in fiber, supporting digestive health. Calories may vary depending on serving sizes and the amount of sour cream used, but on average, one serving has approximately 300-400 calories.

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Cook the pasta: In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add a teaspoon of salt and a few drops of olive oil. Add the farfalle pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually between 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Once done, turn off the heat and let the pasta sit in the water for 2-3 minutes, then drain well.

2. Prepare the vegetables: Meanwhile, boil the broccoli in salted water for 2-3 minutes until slightly tender. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. The carrot can be grated into long strips with a vegetable peeler to add a delicate texture. Slice the red bell pepper into thin strips.

3. Sauté the garlic: In a large skillet, add a splash of olive oil and, over medium heat, add the two garlic cloves, allowing them to fry to flavor the oil. When the garlic turns golden, remove it from the pan and discard.

4. Cook the carrot: In the same skillet, add the carrot strips and sauté for 2-3 minutes until they become slightly soft. Then add the sour cream and mix well. Let it simmer for 2-3 boils, stirring constantly.

5. Combine the ingredients: Add the drained pasta to the skillet, followed by the red bell pepper and broccoli. Season with salt, pepper, and chili flakes if you want a spicy note. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.

6. Finish the salad: Turn off the heat and add the halved cherry tomatoes and chopped chives. Gently mix to avoid crushing the tomatoes.

Serving and Variations

This salad can be served warm or cold, making it extremely versatile. You can turn it into a main dish or use it as a side. Here are a few variation suggestions:

- Add protein: You can incorporate grilled chicken breast or canned tuna to make the salad more substantial.
- Use other vegetables: Zucchini, squash, or green peas can add different flavors and textures.
- Flavor with cheese: Adding grated Parmesan or feta will provide a richer taste and creamy texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use whole grain pasta? Yes, whole grain pasta will add extra nutritional value and a more pronounced flavor.
- How can I store the salad? If there are leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 1-2 days. Before serving, add a little olive oil to refresh the taste.
- What drinks pair well with this salad? A dry white wine or iced tea with lemon are excellent choices that perfectly complement the salad's flavors.

With these tips and detailed steps, you are ready to impress your friends and family with a delicious, healthy, and easy-to-make pasta salad. Enjoy!