Vegetable Pasta Salad – Easy & Healthy Summer Recipe

Summer is the perfect time to enjoy a refreshing and healthy dish, and there’s nothing better than a vibrant vegetable pasta salad. This Vegetable Pasta Salad is packed with fresh veggies, a tangy homemade vinaigrette, and a medley of flavors that come together for an easy-to-make, customizable meal. Whether you’re prepping for a potluck, picnic, or simply need a cool dish to beat the heat, this salad is an ideal choice.

Why This Vegetable Pasta Salad is a Must-Try

This Vegetable Pasta Salad is not only incredibly flavorful but also super versatile and customizable. The combination of crisp vegetables, hearty pasta, and a zesty vinaigrette makes for the perfect balance of textures and tastes. Plus, it’s an excellent option for meal prepping as it holds up beautifully in the fridge for several days, making it ideal for lunch or dinner throughout the week.

Ingredients

Here are the ingredients that make this salad so delightful:

• Bowtie Pasta: Provides the base of the salad, offering a hearty texture.
• Roma Tomatoes: Adds a burst of juicy freshness to the salad.
• Yellow Squash: Contributes a mild, sweet flavor and soft texture.
• Zucchini: Brings a light crunch and a slightly sweet flavor.
• Broccoli Crown: Adds crunch and a slightly bitter contrast to the other veggies.
• Red Onion: Offers a sharp, pungent flavor that balances out the sweetness of other vegetables.
• Roasted Red Peppers: A tangy and smoky element that complements the freshness of the other veggies.
• Fresh Parsley: Adds a fresh, herbaceous note to round out the flavor.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

If you want to switch things up, here are some ideas for substitutions or additions to your Vegetable Pasta Salad:

• Cauliflower: Use in place of broccoli for a more delicate texture.
• Bell Peppers: Adds a sweet crunch and color variety.
• Olives: For a salty, briny flavor that enhances the salad.
• Grilled Asparagus: Adds a smoky and slightly earthy taste.
• Artichokes: For a tangy and savory addition.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Start by preparing the vinaigrette. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, dried oregano, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Set this aside to allow the flavors to meld.
2. Cook 12 oz. bowtie pasta according to package instructions. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it briefly with cold water to cool it down.
3. While the pasta is cooking, chop the vegetables. Dice 2 Roma tomatoes, slice 1 yellow squash, 1 zucchini, and 1/2 red onion. Cut 1 broccoli crown into small bite-sized florets and slice 1 jar of roasted red peppers. Roughly chop 1/2 cup parsley.
4. Once the pasta is cooled and the vegetables are prepped, combine everything in a large mixing bowl.
5. Whisk the vinaigrette once more and pour it over the pasta and vegetables. Toss everything together until well-coated.
6. Taste the salad and adjust with additional salt or pepper, if needed. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.

Tips & Tricks

• Make Ahead: This salad keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors even improve as it sits, making it perfect for meal prepping.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Be sure to cook the pasta just until tender. Overcooking can cause it to become mushy and lose its texture.
• Customize with Protein: For a more filling meal, add grilled chicken, garlic butter shrimp, or feta cheese.
• Taste as You Go: Always taste the salad before serving and adjust the seasoning to your liking.

Pairing Ideas and Variations

This Vegetable Pasta Salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, such as chicken or fish, for a complete meal. You can also enjoy it on its own as a light and satisfying dish. If you want to give it a different twist, try adding some mozzarella cubes or parmesan cheese for a creamy element. For a spicier variation, add a bit of chili flakes or swap the vinaigrette for a Greek yogurt-based dressing.

Make It Gluten-Free

For a gluten-free version, simply swap the pasta for gluten-free pasta or even spiralized zucchini noodles. This way, you can still enjoy all the flavor without the gluten.

Seasonal Benefits of Vegetable Pasta Salad

This Vegetable Pasta Salad is perfect for summer when fresh, seasonal vegetables like zucchini, tomatoes, and broccoli are at their peak. It’s a great way to make use of these nutrient-dense veggies while enjoying a light, cool dish that keeps you refreshed during the hot months.

Incorporating fresh vegetables like broccoli and zucchini provides fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, making this salad not only delicious but also a healthy choice for your summer meals. It’s a great option for those looking to add more vegetables to their diet in a fun and flavorful way.

By following these easy steps, you’ll have a versatile and mouth-watering Vegetable Pasta Salad that can be served at any gathering or enjoyed as a quick and healthy lunch option throughout the week.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this Vegetable Pasta Salad is a perfect dish for any occasion, whether it’s a backyard BBQ, a summer potluck, or a quick and nutritious meal prep. The combination of fresh vegetables, hearty pasta, and a zesty homemade vinaigrette makes it a versatile and delicious option that everyone will love. The best part? It’s customizable, so you can easily adapt the recipe to your personal preferences or whatever vegetables you have on hand. Enjoy it as a light side dish or add protein for a more filling meal. Regardless of how you serve it, this Vegetable Pasta Salad is sure to become a go-to favorite for your summer meals.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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