Description

Lunch box pasta salad is a colorful and flavorful dish that transforms your lunch into a delightful experience. Bursting with fresh vegetables and tender rotini pasta, this salad is coated in a tangy vinaigrette that enhances every bite. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or quick weekday meals, it's easy to customize based on your preferences. Enjoy a satisfying blend of textures and flavors that will brighten up your day!

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups rotini pasta
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup cucumber, diced
1 cup bell peppers (mixed colors), diced
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
1 tsp Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Cook the rotini pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
While the pasta cools, chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell peppers, and red onion.
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta with the chopped vegetables. Pour in the dressing and toss until evenly coated.
Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour before serving for optimal flavor.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Salad
Method: Mixing
Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
Calories: 350
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 150mg
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 15g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 5g
Protein: 8g
Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: - Add protein like grilled chicken or chickpeas for added heartiness. - Customize with your favorite vegetables or use whole grain pasta for a healthier option. - Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.