Pantry Pasta Salad

Ingredients and Weight:

• 1 pound (453 grams) dried pasta (such as penne, rotini, or macaroni)
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) olive oil
• 1/4 cup (60 ml) red wine vinegar
• 1/4 cup (60 ml) lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon (15 ml) dried oregano
• 1 tablespoon (15 ml) dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 ml) salt
• 1/4 teaspoon (1.25 ml) black pepper
• 1/2 cup (120 grams) sun-dried tomatoes (oil-packed)
• 1/2 cup (120 grams) sliced black olives
• 1/2 cup (120 grams) chopped artichoke hearts (canned)
• 1/4 cup (60 grams) chopped red onion
• 1/4 cup (60 grams) chopped fresh parsley
• 1/2 cup (120 grams) shredded Parmesan cheese (for topping)

Preparation Time:

15 minutes

Cooking Time:

According to pasta package instructions

Difficulty Level:

1 (Simple)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the cooked pasta, sun-dried tomatoes, black olives, artichoke hearts, red onion, and parsley to the dressing. Stir to combine.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
5. Top with Parmesan cheese when ready to serve.

Nutritional Information:

• Calories: 350 per serving
• Fat: 15 grams
• Carbohydrates: 45 grams
• Protein: 10 grams

Dish Characteristics:

• Flavorful and tangy Italian-inspired pasta salad
• Versatile and can be customized based on available ingredients
• Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or quick weekday meals

User Comments:

• "This pasta salad is so delicious and refreshing. The combination of flavors is perfect."
• "I love that this salad is easy to make and can be customized to my liking. It's a great way to use up leftover vegetables."
• "I served this salad at a recent party and it was a huge hit. Everyone loved the bright and tangy flavors."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• If you don't have sun-dried tomatoes, you can substitute with finely chopped fresh tomatoes.
• You can add other vegetables to this salad, such as diced bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms.
• If you prefer a creamy pasta salad, you can add a dollop of mayonnaise or Greek yogurt to the dressing.