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Large white oval-shaped serving plate filled with bowtie pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, diced red onion, and mozzarella pearls all tossed in a simple champagne vinaigrette.
5 from 2 votes

Summer Pasta Salad Recipe

This super simple summertime pasta salad combines bowtie-shaped pasta, fresh veggies, and mozzarella pearls in a zesty champagne vinaigrette dressing. Customize with all your favorite veggies, cheese, or dressings. Perfect for summer cookouts and picnics.
Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time10 minutes
Total Time30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: 417kcal

Ingredients

  • 8 ounces bowtie pasta
  • ½ cup olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic - minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon champagne vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ English cucumber - quartered lengthwise, then diced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes - halved
  • 8 ounces mozzarella cheese pearls
  • 1 cup red or yellow bell pepper - diced
  • ½ cup red onion - diced

Instructions

  • Cook the pasta according to the package instructions 1-2 minutes past al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop any additional cooking. Set aside.
  • As the pasta cooks, whisk together the olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, vinegar, salt, and pepper in a large salad or mixing bowl. Once combined, add the cucumber, tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, bell pepper, and red onion and gently toss to coat.
  • As soon as the pasta has been cooked, drained, and cooled slightly (it's ok if the pasta is still warm) add to the bowl and toss well to coat.
  • Season with additional salt and black pepper, to taste. Serve with lemon slices and garnish with freshly minced parsley if desired.

Notes

Keep leftovers stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Stir well before serving as the dressing will settle at the bottom of the bowl as it sits.

Nutrition

Calories: 417kcal | Carbohydrates: 34g | Protein: 13g | Fat: 27g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 13g | Cholesterol: 14mg | Sodium: 422mg | Potassium: 257mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 199IU | Vitamin C: 54mg | Calcium: 159mg | Iron: 1mg
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