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Easy Summer Pasta Salad with Lemon-Herb Vinaigrette

A bright, no-mayo pasta salad with crisp vegetables and a tangy lemon vinaigrette that stays perfectly dressed, even after chilling.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 285

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb 16 oz rotini or other short pasta
  • 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice from about 2 lemons
  • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon honey
  • 1 clove garlic minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 pint cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1 English cucumber quartered and sliced 1/4-inch thick
  • 1/2 cup finely diced red onion
  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese optional

Equipment

  • large pot
  • colander
  • large mixing bowl
  • whisk
  • chef's knife
  • cutting board
  • measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente, usually 8-10 minutes. Drain in a colander and rinse under cold running water for 30 seconds to stop cooking. Shake off excess water and let drain well for 2 minutes.
  2. While pasta cooks, make the vinaigrette. In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until emulsified and slightly thickened, about 30 seconds.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled, drained pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, parsley, and basil. Pour the vinaigrette over the top.
  4. Toss thoroughly with a large spoon or spatula until every piece of pasta and vegetable is coated. If using feta, gently fold it in now.
  5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. This resting time lets the flavors meld. Taste before serving and add a pinch more salt or a squeeze of lemon if needed.

Notes

Storage: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Before serving leftovers, let sit at room temperature for 10 minutes and toss with a splash of olive oil or lemon juice to refresh the dressing. Allergens: contains dairy (feta) and gluten (pasta). For dairy-free, omit feta or use a plant-based crumble. For gluten-free, use your favorite GF pasta and cook 1-2 minutes less than the package suggests to avoid mushiness. Safe handling: when draining hot pasta, use oven mitts and tilt the pot away from your body to avoid steam burns.