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Healthy Pasta Salad Recipe

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This Healthy Pasta Salad is a refreshing and nutritious dish perfect for a light lunch or a side at any gathering. Featuring penne pasta tossed with fresh cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onion, all coated in a tangy balsamic and basil dressing, it offers a delicious balance of flavors and textures that are both satisfying and wholesome.

Ingredients

Pasta

  • 8 oz penne or fusilli pasta

Vegetables

  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes, chopped
  • 2 cups cucumbers, peeled and chopped
  • ¾ cup red onion, chopped

Dressing

  • 3 Tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • ¼ cup fresh basil, finely chopped
  • 3 Tablespoons olive oil
  • ½ teaspoon coconut sugar
  • 1 ½ teaspoons sea salt

Instructions

  1. Cook pasta: Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and run cold water over it to stop the cooking process and cool it down.
  2. Combine vegetables: In a large bowl, add the chopped cherry tomatoes, peeled and chopped cucumbers, and chopped red onion.
  3. Add pasta to vegetables: Add the drained and cooled pasta into the bowl containing the vegetables, mixing gently to combine.
  4. Whisk dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, finely chopped fresh basil, olive oil, coconut sugar, and sea salt until well blended.
  5. Pour dressing and mix: Pour the prepared dressing over the pasta and vegetable mixture. Toss everything together thoroughly to ensure even coating of the dressing.
  6. Chill and serve: Refrigerate the pasta salad until cold, allowing flavors to meld together. Serve chilled and enjoy a fresh, healthy meal.

Notes

  • For best results, use freshly chopped vegetables to maintain crunch and freshness.
  • You can substitute coconut sugar with honey or maple syrup if preferred.
  • This salad can be made a few hours ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
  • To keep the salad vegan, ensure the pasta does not contain eggs.
  • Adding a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper can enhance the overall flavor.

Find it online: https://yumntasty.com/healthy-pasta-salad-recipe/