Tangy and Refreshing: The Ultimate BBQ Side Dish - Pasta Salad
When it comes to BBQ parties or outdoor gatherings, there's
one side dish that always steals the show - pasta salad. Bursting with vibrant
colors, flavors, and textures, this versatile dish is a crowd-pleaser that
complements any grilled meat or veggie delight. Whether you're hosting a
backyard BBQ, attending a potluck, or simply craving a delightful summer treat,
this recipe is here to guide you on the path to pasta salad perfection.
Preparation Time: 20 minutes Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Chilling Time: 2 hours Serves: 6-8 people
Ingredients:
- 12
ounces (340g) tri-color rotini pasta (or any pasta of your choice)
- 1
cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1
cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2
cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2
cup black olives, sliced
- 1/2
cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4
cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/4
cup fresh parsley leaves, chopped
For the Dressing:
- 1/3
cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 1/4
cup red wine vinegar
- 2
tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2
cloves garlic, minced
- 1
teaspoon dried oregano
- 1
teaspoon honey
- Salt
and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook
the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and
cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta
and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
- Prepare
the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine
vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, dried oregano, honey, salt, and
black pepper. Set aside.
- Combine
the ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and cooled
pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, black olives, feta cheese,
basil leaves, and parsley. Toss gently to mix everything together.
- Add
the dressing: Pour the prepared dressing over the pasta salad and toss
again to coat all the ingredients evenly. Adjust the seasoning to taste by
adding more salt and pepper if needed.
- Chill
and marinate: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the salad to an
airtight container. Place it in the refrigerator and let it chill for at
least 2 hours, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Serve
and enjoy: Once chilled, give the pasta salad a final toss before serving.
Garnish with additional fresh herbs if desired. This pasta salad pairs
perfectly with grilled meats, burgers, or as a standalone dish. Enjoy it
as a refreshing side at BBQ parties, picnics, or potlucks.
Tips:
- Feel
free to customize the pasta salad by adding or substituting ingredients to
your liking. Some great additions could include diced bell peppers,
shredded carrots, grilled corn kernels, or diced avocado.
- For
a healthier twist, use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta options.
- If
you're planning to prepare the salad in advance, add the dressing just
before serving to keep the salad fresh and prevent it from becoming soggy.
- Leftovers
can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. However, the pasta
may absorb some of the dressing, so you may need to add a little extra
before serving.
With its vibrant colors, tangy dressing, and delightful
combination of ingredients, this pasta salad is sure to become the star of your
BBQ gatherings. Its refreshing flavors and versatility make it an all-time
favorite side dish that will impress your guests and leave them wanting more.
So, fire up the grill, gather your loved ones, and indulge in the goodness of this
fantastic pasta salad recipe.