Pasta Salad with Homemade Dressing

This Pasta Salad with Homemade Dressing is a refreshing and vibrant dish that brings together the perfect balance of textures and flavors. With tender rotini pasta, crisp vegetables, and a tangy homemade dressing, it’s a versatile side dish that’s ideal for picnics, barbecues, or a light lunch. The homemade dressing adds a personal touch that elevates this salad beyond the typical store-bought versions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pasta salad is a crowd-pleaser for several reasons:

• Fresh and Flavorful: The combination of crunchy vegetables, creamy cheddar cheese, and tangy dressing creates a harmonious bite every time.

• Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can have this salad ready in under an hour.

• Customizable: Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies or add protein like grilled chicken for a heartier meal.

• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a summer BBQ, a family gathering, or meal prep for the week, this salad fits perfectly into any setting.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Salad:

• 12 oz rotini pasta

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1 cup cucumber, diced

• ½ red onion, finely chopped

• 1 cup cheddar cheese, cubed

• ½ cup black olives, sliced

• ½ cup green bell pepper, chopped

For the Homemade Dressing:

• ½ cup olive oil

• ¼ cup red wine vinegar

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• Salt and black pepper to taste

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta
   Cook the rotini pasta according to the package instructions in salted water until al dente, about 10–12 minutes.

2. Cool the Pasta
   Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set the pasta aside to cool for about 5 minutes.

3. Prepare the Salad Ingredients
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, cheddar cheese, olives, and green bell pepper. Toss gently to mix.

4. Make the Dressing
   In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper until emulsified.

5. Dress the Salad
   Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss well to coat everything evenly.

6. Chill and Serve
   Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6–8 servings

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cooking Time: 10 minutes

• Chill Time: 30 minutes

• Total Time: 55 minutes

Variations

• Add Protein: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or even bacon for a more filling meal.

• Swap Veggies: Feel free to mix in other vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or spinach.

• Vegan Option: Omit the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.

• Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley or basil can add extra brightness to the salad.

• Different Cheese: Substitute cheddar with mozzarella, feta, or any cheese you prefer.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: This pasta salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: While this salad is typically served cold, if you prefer it warm, you can briefly microwave the pasta and then add the dressing afterward.

FAQs

1. Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this salad the night before. Just store it in the fridge, and the flavors will intensify as it sits.

2. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Definitely! You can use any pasta shape you like, such as penne, farfalle, or fusilli.

3. Can I use store-bought dressing?

Yes, you can substitute the homemade dressing with your favorite store-bought vinaigrette, but the homemade version adds a great personal touch.

4. Can I add protein to this salad?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken, tuna, or even chickpeas would work great in this salad.

5. How long does this pasta salad last in the fridge?

This pasta salad will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. After that, the vegetables may start to soften.

6. Can I make the dressing in advance?

Yes, the dressing can be made ahead of time and stored in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to a week.

7. Can I use other types of vinegar for the dressing?

Yes, you can use balsamic vinegar or apple cider vinegar for a different flavor profile.

8. How do I prevent the pasta from getting soggy?

Make sure to rinse the pasta under cold water after cooking and allow it to cool fully before mixing it with the vegetables and dressing.

9. Can I add fruit to the pasta salad?

Yes, fruit like diced apples, grapes, or berries can add a sweet and fresh element to the salad.

10. Can I substitute the cheddar cheese with something else?

Yes, you can substitute cheddar with mozzarella, feta, or a vegan cheese if preferred.

Conclusion

This Pasta Salad with Homemade Dressing is a perfect blend of freshness, tanginess, and texture that makes it ideal for any occasion. It’s quick, easy, and customizable, allowing you to make it your own. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish at a cookout or enjoying it as a light lunch, this pasta salad is sure to be a hit!