Easy Italian Pasta Salad Recipe

Looking for an easy pasta salad recipe that you can whip up in no time? This simple yet delicious Italian-style pasta salad is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, as well as for any potluck gathering. The cooking time for this dish is approximately 30 minutes, and it serves four generous portions.

Ingredients:

• 8 ounces of your favorite pasta shape
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• ½ cup red onion, chopped
• ¼ cup pitted Kalamata olives
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ¼ cup parsley, chopped (optional)
• Cheese for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

Start by boiling the pasta in a large pot of salted water until it’s al dente. Once cooked, drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent the pasta from overcooking.

In a medium-sized bowl, add the cherry tomatoes, red onion, Kalamata olives, parsley (if using), and the drained pasta. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.

Next, prepare the dressing by whisking together the olive oil, lemon juice, sugar (optional), salt, and pepper in a separate bowl until thoroughly combined. Pour this mixture over the pasta salad and toss gently but thoroughly with your hands or a large spoon to coat everything equally. Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary.

Allow the pasta salad to marinate for about 15 minutes at room temperature before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and crumbled cheese if desired, then serve immediately.

This dish is not only simple to prepare but also incredibly versatile. You can substitute ingredients based on your personal preferences or dietary needs – perhaps swap out the Kalamata olives for black olives or omit them altogether for a lower sodium option. Feel free to add more vegetables such as cucumbers, bell peppers, or even some cooked chicken if you prefer.

The key to this Italian pasta salad's success lies in its balance of flavors and textures. The crispy texture of the red onions contrasts beautifully with the softness of the pasta and tomatoes, while the tangy lemon juice complements the richness of the olive oil. If you love a bit more heat, consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes to your dressing.

For those who are short on time but still want something tasty, this pasta salad offers an excellent solution. It requires minimal prep and cooking effort yet yields impressive results every single time. Plus, it pairs wonderfully with almost any main course, whether you’re having grilled chicken, a side of Caesar salad, or just enjoying it as a standalone meal.

A healthy twist can be added by using whole wheat pasta instead of regular varieties, making the dish more nutritious without sacrificing on flavor. You could also increase the amount of vegetables for extra fiber and antioxidants.

To take your Italian pasta salad to the next level, consider serving it with a side of crusty bread or garlic toast. For a refreshing drink option, serve a cold glass of iced tea or lemonade alongside this meal. Alternatively, if you prefer something alcoholic, a chilled white wine like Pinot Grigio would be an excellent pairing.

For those seeking more complex flavors, try adding some capers and anchovies to the dressing for an authentic Italian touch. Just remember that these additions may not appeal equally to everyone; always taste before making any significant changes to suit your palate best.

Cooking time: 30 minutes

Servings: 4 portions

This versatile pasta salad is a go-to favorite for many households, especially when looking for convenient yet satisfying meals. Whether you're hosting friends or simply cooking for yourself, this recipe provides an easy way to enjoy delicious Italian flavors without requiring too much effort from the cook.