Looking for a refreshing dish that’s bursting with flavor and perfect for any occasion? Our Pasta Salad with Lemon Poppy Seed Dressing is your answer! This vibrant and colorful salad is not only easy to prepare but also a delightful combination of textures and tastes that will leave your guests asking for seconds. With just 25 minutes from prep to plate, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights, picnics, or potlucks. Dive into a bowl of sunshine and discover how this zesty dressing elevates your pasta salad game!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (fusilli or rotini)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, diced
- 1/4 cup bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup lemon poppy seed dressing
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 8 oz of pasta (fusilli or rotini), 1 cup of cherry tomatoes (halved), 1/2 cup of cucumber (diced), 1/4 cup of red onion (diced), 1/4 cup of bell pepper (diced), 1/4 cup of lemon poppy seed dressing, and salt and pepper to taste.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes.
- While the pasta is cooking, prepare the vegetables. Wash the cherry tomatoes and cut them in half. Peel and dice the cucumber, red onion, and bell pepper into small, bite-sized pieces.
- Once the pasta is cooked, drain it in a colander and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down. Let it drain thoroughly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, red onion, and bell pepper. Gently toss the ingredients together to mix.
- Pour the lemon poppy seed dressing over the pasta and vegetable mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss everything together until the pasta and vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Once mixed, taste the salad and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt, pepper, or dressing as desired.
- Cover the pasta salad with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. This step can be skipped if you prefer to serve it immediately.
- Before serving, give the salad a good stir to redistribute the dressing. Serve chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy your delicious Pasta Salad with Lemon Poppy Seed Dressing!
Tips
- Perfect Pasta: Make sure to cook the pasta until al dente for the best texture. Overcooking can lead to a mushy salad, so keep an eye on the clock!
- Chill Out: Allowing the salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least 10 minutes helps the flavors meld beautifully. If you have time, letting it sit longer will enhance the taste even more.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or add extras like olives, avocado, or feta cheese for a unique twist.
- Dress to Impress: If you prefer a creamier dressing, consider adding a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream to the lemon poppy seed dressing for a richer flavor.
- Seasoning Matters: Always taste and adjust the seasoning before serving. A little extra salt or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice can make a big difference!
- Make Ahead: This pasta salad keeps well in the fridge for a couple of days, making it an excellent option for meal prep or leftovers.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 355kcal
Carbohydrates: 58g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 13g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
