Description
A vibrant and nutritious Tuscan-inspired pasta salad packed with fresh vegetables, hearty pasta, and a zesty dressing — perfect for a light meal or side dish.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 8 oz whole wheat pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- In a large bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, black olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and basil.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Add the cooked pasta to the vegetables and toss to combine.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and mix well.
- Top with grated Parmesan cheese and gently toss.
- Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Notes
- For a vegan version, omit the Parmesan cheese or use a plant-based alternative.
- Add grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra protein.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 380mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 5mg