Colored pasta salad (spirals) with tomatoes, cucumbers, and sausages.

Colorful Pasta Salad with Tomatoes, Cucumbers, and Sausages

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

Introduction

Who doesn't love a fresh, colorful salad bursting with flavors? This colorful pasta salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, and sausages is an excellent choice for a quick yet tasty meal, perfect for summer lunches or dinners. Not only is this recipe easy to prepare, but it also offers a vibrant explosion of colors and textures that will bring a smile to anyone's face.

Moreover, colorful pasta is not only visually appealing but also adds a cheerful touch to your plate. Over the years, pasta salads have gained popularity due to their versatility and ability to combine various ingredients, making them suitable for any occasion.

Ingredients

- 10 sausages (cooked)
- 300 g colorful spiral pasta
- 5 medium tomatoes
- 5 garden cucumbers
- 4 cloves of garlic
- 50 g sour cream
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 garden cucumbers (for juice)
- 1 packet of Knorr Salad Dressing with peppers and herbs
- Salt, pepper, dried or fresh mint (to taste)

Preparation Technique

1. Preparing the sausages: Start by bringing water to a boil in a pot, adding a teaspoon of salt to enhance the flavor. Once the water is boiling, add the sausages and cover the pot with a lid. Turn off the heat and let them warm for about 5-7 minutes. This will ensure they cook evenly and remain juicy.

2. Boiling the pasta: In another pot, add water and salt, then cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Typically, colorful pasta requires boiling for 8-10 minutes. Once al dente, drain them in a colander and let them cool slightly.

3. Preparing the vegetables: Wash the tomatoes and cucumbers. Cut the tomatoes into slices or cubes, and the cucumbers into rounds or cubes, depending on your preference. These vegetables will add freshness and a crunchy contrast to your salad.

4. Assembling the salad: In a large bowl, layer the ingredients. The first layer will be tomatoes, followed by cucumbers, and then the colorful pasta. Finally, add the sausages cut into rounds about 1 cm thick. This layered approach not only looks good but also helps maintain the textures of each ingredient.

5. Preparing the dressing: In a small bowl, crush the 4 cloves of garlic using a garlic press. Add the two peeled and diced cucumbers, which will add a hint of freshness. Mix this garlic paste with a packet of Knorr Salad Dressing with peppers and herbs, 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, and 50 g of sour cream. Season with salt, pepper, and a bit of mint, either dried or fresh, for an extra flavor boost.

6. Finalizing the salad: Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine all the ingredients. Ensure that each ingredient is well coated with the dressing.

7. Serving: The colorful pasta salad is now ready to be served! You can add a few fresh mint leaves for garnish or opt for an extra drizzle of olive oil. This salad is perfect as a main dish but can also be a delicious side dish alongside grilled meats.

Practical Tips

- Choose quality pasta: Use durum wheat pasta for better texture. Colorful pasta is available in stores and made from natural ingredients that give vibrant shades.
- Cool the pasta: After draining, you can rinse the pasta with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool them down faster.
- Add cheese: If you want an extra flavor boost, you can add crumbled feta or grated parmesan on top of the salad.
- Vary the ingredients: You can replace the sausages with grilled chicken or canned tuna. Additionally, add olives or bell peppers for an even bolder taste.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits

This salad has approximately 350-400 calories per serving, depending on the amount of oil and sour cream used. It is an excellent source of carbohydrates from the pasta, fiber from the vegetables, and protein from the sausages. Tomatoes and cucumbers provide antioxidants and essential vitamins, while extra virgin olive oil is known for its cardiovascular health benefits.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer. Whole grain pasta is a healthier option.

2. How can I store the salad?
It is recommended to consume the salad immediately after preparation, but you can store it in the refrigerator for 1-2 days. Make sure to cover it to prevent it from drying out.

3. Can I make the salad vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can omit the sausages and add tofu or chickpeas for protein.

4. What drinks pair well with this salad?
A dry white wine or fresh lemonade complements the flavors of this dish perfectly.

Personal Note

This salad reminds me of warm summer days spent cooking with family, savoring every bite in the backyard. It is a versatile recipe that can be customized based on available ingredients and personal preferences. Don't hesitate to experiment and add your favorite ingredients!

Enjoy your meal!