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Easy Pasta Salad Recipe 5-Minute Fresh Budget-Friendly Lunch Idea

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A fresh, bright, and satisfying pasta salad that is quick to make, budget-friendly, and perfect for on-the-go lunches. Uses simple pantry staples and fresh veggies for a nourishing, no-fuss meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces (225 grams) rotini or bow-tie pasta
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup cucumber, diced, peeled if preferred
  • ½ cup red bell pepper, diced
  • 2 tablespoons red onion, finely chopped (optional)
  • ½ cup fresh mozzarella balls, halved
  • A handful fresh basil leaves, torn
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • ½ teaspoon honey or maple syrup
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces (225 grams) rotini and cook according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until al dente.
  2. Drain pasta in a colander and rinse under cold running water to stop cooking and cool it down quickly. Let it drain well to avoid sogginess.
  3. While pasta cooks, halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber and red bell pepper, and finely chop the red onion. Tear the basil leaves into bite-sized pieces.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons olive oil, 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, ½ teaspoon honey, ¼ teaspoon garlic powder, and salt and pepper to taste. Adjust seasoning if needed.
  5. Add the cooled pasta, chopped veggies, fresh mozzarella balls, and basil to the bowl with dressing. Toss gently but thoroughly to coat everything evenly.
  6. You can eat immediately or cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld. Keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Notes

Do not overcook pasta; al dente texture is key. Rinse pasta well to stop cooking and keep salad fresh. Toss gently to avoid breaking pasta and squishing veggies. Chill salad for at least 30 minutes for best flavor. Use gluten-free pasta or dairy-free cheese for dietary adaptations. Add protein like grilled chicken or chickpeas for a heartier meal.

Nutrition

Keywords: pasta salad, easy lunch, quick recipe, budget-friendly, fresh pasta salad, rotini salad, healthy lunch, make-ahead salad

Find it online: https://gleefulfork.com/easy-pasta-salad-recipe-5-minute-fresh-budget-friendly-lunch-idea/