Pasta salad with fresh vegetables

Pasta salad with fresh vegetables - an explosion of flavors and colors on your plate, perfect for warm days or as a delicious accompaniment to any meal. This recipe is not only simple but also extremely versatile, allowing you to experiment with the ingredients according to your personal preferences. I invite you to discover the steps needed to create this tasty and nutritious salad, which is sure to become a favorite among family and friends.

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

Ingredients:

- 90 g pasta (preferably penne or fusilli for more texture)
- 2 large ripe tomatoes
- 1/2 fresh cucumber
- 1 bell pepper (preferably red or yellow for a pop of color)
- 1 small carrot
- 2 pickled peppers (optional, but recommended for a delicious taste)
- 1 teaspoon paprika (choose a smoked one for extra flavor)
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon mustard (Dijon mustard can add an elegant touch)
- Salt to taste
- 1 tablespoon vinegar (white wine or balsamic, depending on preference)
- Fresh or dried oregano, for garnish
- Grated Parmesan, for a delicious finish

Step by step:

1. Boil the pasta: Bring a large pot of water to a boil, adding a teaspoon of salt. Once the water is boiling, add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually between 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

2. Prepare the vegetables: While the pasta is boiling, wash all the fresh vegetables. Slice the bell pepper and pickled peppers into thin strips. Dice the tomatoes and cucumber, and grate the carrot for a crunchy and sweet texture in the salad.

3. Assemble the vegetables: Place all the chopped vegetables in a large bowl. This bowl will become the home for your fresh ingredients, so make sure it’s spacious enough.

4. Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, combine the 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 tablespoon of vinegar, paprika, mustard, and salt to taste. Mix well until the ingredients are homogeneous. This dressing will add a savory note to the salad and enhance the flavors of the vegetables.

5. Finish the salad: Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and add it to the bowl with the vegetables. Pour the dressing over the salad and gently mix to avoid crushing the vegetables. You want each ingredient to remain intact to provide a variety of textures.

6. Season and serve: Sprinkle some oregano and grated Parmesan on top of the salad for added flavor. Serve immediately, but if you wish, you can refrigerate the salad for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld better.

Practical tips:

- Choose whole grain pasta for a healthier, fiber-rich option.
- Add proteins like cooked chicken, tuna, or chickpeas to turn the salad into a complete meal.
- Experiment with other seasonal vegetables: zucchini, olives, or arugula can add a different and interesting taste.
- The dressing can be customized with fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a fresh note.

Nutritional benefits:

This pasta salad with fresh vegetables is not only tasty but also packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Tomatoes are rich in antioxidants, especially lycopene, which helps protect the body. Carrots provide beta-carotene, while fresh vegetables offer a significant amount of essential vitamins. Olive oil is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and contribution to heart health.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use gluten-free pasta? Absolutely! There are many delicious and healthy options made from rice or vegetables.
2. How can I store the salad? If you have leftovers, keep the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The pasta may absorb the dressing, so be mindful of the consistency.
3. What drinks pair well with this salad? A fresh lemonade or a dry white wine are excellent options that complement the flavors of the salad.

Personal suggestion:

For an extra flavor boost, try adding some toasted nuts or sunflower seeds for a crunchy texture. This will turn the salad into a true feast for the senses!

Try this pasta salad recipe with fresh vegetables and enjoy every colorful and delicious bite. Whether you serve it at a light lunch or as a side dish for dinner, it will surely be a hit! Enjoy!