Easy Memorial Day Classic Pasta Salad Recipe

Catch the essence of summer with a vibrant bowl of Memorial Day Classic Pasta Salad! This dish bursts with colorful veggies and zesty dressing that dances on your taste buds. Imagine biting into perfectly cooked pasta intertwined with fresh ingredients while the aroma of herbs wafts through the air.

I can’t help but reminisce about last year’s barbecue when this delightful pasta salad stole the show. Everyone was raving about it as they piled their plates high. It’s the perfect dish for those sunny days filled with laughter and good company!

I recall my friend Mary’s face lighting up when she took her first bite; it was priceless!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Pasta: Use rotini or penne for a great texture; they hold the dressing beautifully.
• Cherry Tomatoes: Opt for juicy and vibrant ones; they add freshness and sweetness to the salad.
• Cucumber: Select firm cucumbers for crunch; peel if you prefer less bitterness.
• Bell Peppers: Any color works well; they bring sweetness and a pop of color to your dish.
• Red Onion: Slice thinly for a mild bite; soaking them in water can tone down the sharpness.
• Fresh Herbs: Basil or parsley adds incredible freshness; feel free to mix them up!
• Italian Dressing: A zesty store-bought variety saves time; homemade versions can be tailored to your taste.
• Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh cheese for the best flavor; it adds creaminess to every bite.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Start off by boiling your pasta until al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes—just enough time for a quick dance break in your kitchen. Drain and rinse under cold water until cool.

Once your pasta is ready, toss it into a large mixing bowl along with halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, chopped bell peppers, and thinly sliced red onion. This colorful medley will make your dish pop like fireworks on the Fourth of July!

Now it’s time to sprinkle in some fresh herbs. Chopping basil or parsley adds that aromatic touch we all crave in summer dishes. Mix everything gently so that each ingredient gets cozy with its neighbors.

Drizzle in your Italian dressing generously—don’t be skimpy here! You want every piece coated in that zesty goodness. Add freshly grated Parmesan cheese as a final flourish before giving everything one last gentle toss.

Cover your bowl with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container before refrigerating for at least 30 minutes. Letting it chill allows those flavors to mingle like old friends catching up over coffee.

When you’re ready to serve, give it another gentle toss just to ensure everything is evenly distributed. Grab some forks—or better yet, invite everyone over for family-style serving—and watch those smiles light up!

Enjoy this Memorial Day Classic Pasta Salad at picnics or barbecues; it’s guaranteed to be a hit!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking your pasta al dente, then cool it before adding other ingredients to prevent sogginess.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out vegetables or add proteins like grilled chicken or chickpeas for variety and heartiness.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. No reheating needed; it’s delicious cold!

Sharing this recipe always reminds me of a sunny Memorial Day picnic where my friends devoured every last bite. Their laughter mixed with the clinking of forks made that day unforgettable.

FAQ

What makes this Memorial Day Classic Pasta Salad unique?

This pasta salad stands out due to its colorful vegetables and zesty dressing that complement each bite.

Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare it a day ahead for better flavor integration and convenience.

What are some good add-ins for this pasta salad?

Consider adding grilled chicken, chickpeas, or different veggies based on your preference and availability.

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Memorial Day Classic Pasta Salad

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Memorial Day Classic Pasta Salad is a colorful, refreshing dish that’s perfect for summer gatherings. Bursting with fresh veggies and zesty dressing, it’s sure to be a hit!

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

Ingredients

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• 2 cups rotini pasta
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup cucumber, diced
• 1 cup bell peppers, diced (any color)
• ½ cup red onion, thinly sliced
• ¼ cup fresh basil or parsley, chopped
• ½ cup Italian dressing
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

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Instructions

1. Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Drain and rinse under cold water.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell peppers, and red onion.
3. Add the chopped herbs and mix gently.
4. Drizzle the Italian dressing over the salad and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese. Toss until well combined.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld before serving.

Notes

• Customize by adding grilled chicken or chickpeas for added protein.
• Feel free to swap in seasonal vegetables for variety.
• For best flavor, prepare the salad a day in advance.

• Author: Sophie
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 150g)
• Calories: 220
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 320mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 7g
• Cholesterol: 10mg