Description
Legendary Summer Pasta Salad is a bright, protein‑packed side perfect for warm‑weather meals. Tender al dente pasta mingles with cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumber, sweet bell pepper, and briny black olives, while smoked beef adds savory depth. A simple vinaigrette of olive oil, grape juice, salt, and pepper brings a light tang that complements the fresh vegetables. Ready in minutes, this easy recipe is ideal for picnics barbecues, potlucks, or any gathering where a colorful, pleasing dish shines.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 ounces pasta of your choice
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 1 cup cucumber (diced)
- 1 cup bell pepper (diced)
- 1 cup smoked beef (diced)
- 1/2 cup black olives (sliced)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil (chopped)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons grape juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook pasta until al dente, drain and rinse under cold water.
- Combine pasta, tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, smoked beef, olives, and basil in a large bowl.
- Whisk olive oil, grape juice, salt, and pepper to make dressing.
- Pour dressing over salad and toss gently.
- Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
- For best texture, rinse pasta with cold water after draining. Adjust salt and pepper to taste. This salad can be made a day ahead
- keep dressing separate until just before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Lunch
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: Legendary Summer Pasta Salad, easy pasta salad recipe, summer side dish, quick pasta salad, best pasta salad, how to make pasta salad, summer picnic recipes, healthy pasta salad, quick summer salads