Pasta salad

Pasta salad with vegetables and cheese – a simple, quick, and delicious recipe

When it comes to quick and nutritious dishes, pasta salad tops the list. This recipe is not only a feast for the taste buds but also an excellent option for family meals, picnics, or even gatherings with friends. With a vibrant mix of fresh ingredients, pasta salad brings a splash of color and joy to your table.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooling time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

- 300 g pasta (preferably penne or fusilli to catch the sauce)
- 3 slices of turkey ham (or any preferred type of ham)
- 2 boiled eggs
- 1 boiled carrot
- 3 green onions
- 2 tablespoons of oil (olive or sunflower)
- 1 tablespoon of vinegar (wine or balsamic)
- 1 teaspoon of sugar (to balance acidity)
- 2 tablespoons of sweet ketchup (for a touch of flavor)
- 3 slices of melted cheese (or feta cheese for a salty note)
- Salt, basil, and pepper to taste

The story of the recipe

Pasta salad is a versatile dish that has gained popularity in many culinary cultures. Its origins are often associated with using leftover pasta, transforming it into delicious and nutritious meals. This recipe is perfect for using ingredients you already have in the fridge and creating a tasty dish that harmoniously blends flavors.

Preparing the pasta salad

1. Boiling the pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually between 8 and 12 minutes, until al dente. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

2. Cooling the pasta: Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and rinse it under cold running water. This step is essential to stop the cooking process and maintain a pleasant texture. Gradually, let it drain completely.

3. Preparing the ingredients: While the pasta cools, you can prepare the other ingredients:
- Dice the turkey ham and melted cheese.
- Cut the boiled eggs into quarters or cubes, depending on your preference.
- Peel and dice the boiled carrot.
- Chop the green onions into thin rings.

4. Mixing the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, ham, eggs, carrot, green onions, and cheese. Add fresh basil (or dried if you don’t have fresh), salt, and pepper to taste.

5. Making the dressing: In a small bowl, mix the oil, vinegar, sugar, and ketchup. This combination will add a sweet and tangy note to your salad. Pour the dressing over the salad and mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.

6. Final cooling: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This step will allow the flavors to develop and blend perfectly.

Serving the salad

Pasta salad is delicious served cold but can also be enjoyed at room temperature. A serving suggestion would be to garnish it with a few fresh basil leaves and some cherry tomato slices for a contrast of color and texture. You can accompany this dish with a refreshing lemonade or a dry white wine for a perfect lunch.

Nutritional benefits

This salad is an excellent source of complex carbohydrates from pasta, protein from eggs and ham, and vitamins from vegetables. The carrot is rich in beta-carotene, a beneficial antioxidant for vision, while the green onion adds extra vitamins and minerals. It is a balanced dish that can easily be included in your daily diet.

Possible variations

To customize this recipe, you can add or substitute ingredients to your taste:
- Replace the ham with cooked chicken or tuna for a lighter version.
- Add olives, bell peppers, or corn for a splash of color and a different taste.
- If you love cheese, you can try feta or mozzarella for a different texture.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use whole grain pasta?
Absolutely! Whole grain pasta is an excellent choice to add fiber and extra nutrients to your salad.

2. How long can the salad be stored in the fridge?
It can be stored for 2-3 days in the fridge, but it is best enjoyed fresh, especially within the first 24 hours.

3. Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, you can make a vegetarian version using cheese and replacing the ham with extra vegetables.

4. How can I make the salad spicier?
Add a few drops of chili sauce or red pepper flakes for an extra spicy flavor.

Now you are ready to prepare a delicious pasta salad that is sure to impress everyone who tastes it. Enjoy your meal!