When the summer months come around, there’s nothing better than serving up a delicious and easy-to-make pasta salad. This five-ingredient pasta salad is a great way to enjoy the hot summer days without needing to spend hours in the kitchen. The best part is that the ingredients are simple, and the dish can be tailored to suit any dietary needs. Whether you’re looking for something vegan, vegetarian, or just plain tasty, this dish is sure to hit the spot!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This five-ingredient pasta salad is perfect for anyone who is looking for a quick and easy dish. You’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 lb of pasta
- 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup of fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup of extra-virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese, grated
Steps to Prepare
Once you have all the ingredients gathered, it’s time to start making the pasta salad. Here’s what you need to do:
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- In a large bowl, mix together the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, basil, olive oil, and Parmesan cheese. Mix until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Place the pasta salad in the refrigerator and let it chill for at least an hour before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This five-ingredient pasta salad is a delicious and refreshing way to enjoy the summer season. It’s perfect for picnics, barbecues, or just a light lunch. Serve it alongside some grilled vegetables or a side salad for a complete meal. You can also top it off with some crumbled feta or goat cheese for a bit of extra flavor.
Tips and Tricks
To make this five-ingredient pasta salad even tastier, try adding some extra ingredients. Here are some ideas:
- Add some diced cucumber for a refreshing crunch.
- Throw in some olives for a salty kick.
- Mix in some diced red onion for a bit of extra flavor.
- Toss in some diced bell peppers for a bit of color.
- Top it off with some toasted pine nuts for a nutty flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I make this five-ingredient pasta salad vegan?
To make this five-ingredient pasta salad vegan, simply omit the Parmesan cheese and use a vegan-friendly olive oil. You can also add some vegan-friendly toppings, such as crumbled tofu or chopped nuts.
How should I store leftovers of this pasta salad?
Leftovers of this five-ingredient pasta salad should be stored in an airtight container and kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this five-ingredient pasta salad ahead of time. Simply prepare the dish according to the instructions and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve it.
What other ingredients can I add to this dish?
You can add any other ingredients to this five-ingredient pasta salad that you like. Some ideas include diced red onion, diced bell peppers, olives, toasted pine nuts, or crumbled feta or goat cheese.
How long should I chill the pasta salad before serving?
It’s best to chill the five-ingredient pasta salad in the refrigerator for at least one hour before serving. This will allow the flavors to develop and will make the dish even tastier.
