Summer Sizzle: A Refreshing Twist on Pasta Salad

Today’s Inspiration: A Taste of Summer

I’m excited to share a new recipe with you today that was inspired by the vibrant colors and flavors of summer. This dish is a refreshing twist on a classic Italian pasta salad, perfect for a picnic or backyard barbecue. Let’s dive into the details of this delicious creation.

Ingredients:

• penne pasta (250g)
• cherry tomatoes, halved (200g)
• cucumbers, diced (150g)
• red onion, thinly sliced (100g)
• kalamata olives, pitted and chopped (50g)
• feta cheese, crumbled (100g)
• fresh basil leaves, torn (30g)
• olive oil (60ml)
• red wine vinegar (30ml)
• garlic, minced (2 cloves)
• salt and pepper, to taste

Kitchen Tools:

• pot
• colander
• cutting board
• knife
• mixing bowl
• whisk

Start by cooking the penne pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, kalamata olives, feta cheese, and torn basil leaves. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.

Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss everything together until well combined. Make sure to coat all the ingredients evenly with the flavorful dressing.

Serve the pasta salad chilled or at room temperature, allowing the flavors to meld together. The combination of the fresh vegetables, tangy feta cheese, and zesty dressing creates a delightful burst of flavors in every bite.

This dish weighs approximately 1000g in total and serves 4 people, with each serving weighing around 250g. Each serving is approximately 350 calories.

One unique tip for this pasta salad is to add a handful of toasted pine nuts for an extra crunch and nutty flavor. It’s a simple addition that takes this dish to the next level.

I hope you enjoy making and sharing this summer-inspired pasta salad with your loved ones. Feel free to customize it with your favorite seasonal veggies or herbs to make it your own. Bon appétit!