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Easy Vibrant Patriotic Pasta Salad Recipe for Perfect Summer Gatherings

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A light, refreshing, and colorful pasta salad featuring rotini pasta, fresh veggies, blueberries, and a tangy homemade dressing, perfect for summer gatherings and BBQs.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces (340 grams) rotini pasta
  • 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup fresh blueberries
  • 1 medium cucumber, diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 ounces (340 grams) of rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  2. Drain the pasta in a colander and rinse briefly under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down. Set aside to drain completely.
  3. While pasta cooks, dice 1 medium red bell pepper, halve 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, dice 1 medium cucumber, finely chop 1/4 cup red onion, and roughly chop 2 tablespoons fresh parsley. Rinse 1 cup fresh blueberries and pat dry gently.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil, 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon honey, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chopped vegetables, blueberries, and parsley. Pour the dressing over the top.
  6. Using a large spoon or salad tongs, gently toss everything together until the pasta and veggies are evenly coated with the dressing.
  7. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer to a covered container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
  8. Give it a final gentle toss before plating. If the salad is a bit dry after chilling, add a splash more olive oil or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving.

Notes

Do not overcook the pasta; rinse with cold water immediately after draining to stop cooking and cool the pasta. Use fresh, firm produce to maintain crunch. Whisk dressing thoroughly to create a smooth emulsion. Chill the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to let flavors meld. Handle blueberries gently to avoid bruising. Add extra olive oil or lemon juice if salad seems dry after chilling.

Nutrition

Keywords: pasta salad, patriotic pasta salad, summer salad, rotini pasta salad, blueberry pasta salad, BBQ side dish, easy pasta salad, colorful pasta salad

Find it online: https://avabowls.com/easy-vibrant-patriotic-pasta-salad-recipe-for-perfect-summer-gatherings/