Ingredients and Weight:
- 1 pound penne pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup cucumber, chopped
- 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 12 minutes (for pasta)
Difficulty Level: 2 (simple)
Preparation Method Steps:
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water.
- In a large bowl, combine the pasta, tomatoes, onion, cucumber, olives, basil, and Parmesan cheese.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Pour over the salad and toss to coat.
Nutritional Information:
Per serving (1/8 of recipe):
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 15 grams
- Protein: 12 grams
- Carbohydrates: 40 grams
- Fiber: 5 grams
Dish Characteristics:
- Colorful and vibrant
- Packed with fresh vegetables
- Tangy and flavorful
- Perfect for a summer gathering or potluck
User Comments:
- "This pasta salad is so refreshing and delicious! I love the combination of flavors."
- "I'm not usually a fan of pasta salad, but this one is a game-changer. It's so well-balanced and flavorful."
- "It's a great dish to make ahead of time and take to picnics or parties."
Special Precautions and Tips:
- For a vegetarian version, omit the Kalamata olives.
- Add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
- If the pasta salad becomes too dry, add a splash more olive oil or vinegar.
