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Angel Hair Pasta Salad

Angel Hair Pasta Salad
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Refreshing Angel Hair Pasta Salad with crisp vegetables and a zesty homemade dressing, perfect for warm summer days. This light yet satisfying salad blends delicate angel hair pasta with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell peppers, red onion, and fresh basil. Tossed in a bright lemon-garlic dressing and optionally topped with parmesan cheese, it’s an effortless meal or crowd-pleaser that complements any summer gathering.

Ingredients

Scale

Salad Ingredients

  • 6 oz angel hair pasta
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup cucumber, chopped
  • 1 cup bell peppers, chopped (mixed colors)
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, finely chopped

Dressing Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Optional

  • 1/4 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Cook the Angel Hair Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the angel hair pasta and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse immediately with cold water to stop cooking and cool it down.
  2. Prepare the Fresh Vegetables: While the pasta cooks, wash and chop cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell peppers, and red onion into bite-sized pieces. Finely chop fresh basil and set everything aside.
  3. Make the Zesty Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined and slightly emulsified.
  4. Combine Pasta and Vegetables: In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooled angel hair pasta with the chopped vegetables and basil, ensuring an even distribution of colors and flavors.
  5. Dress the Salad: Pour the zesty dressing over the pasta and veggies, tossing gently but thoroughly so everything is coated. Adjust seasoning with more salt or lemon juice if needed.
  6. Add Finishing Touches: If using, sprinkle freshly grated parmesan cheese on top just before serving for an extra layer of savory richness.

Notes

  • Don’t overcook pasta; angel hair cooks very quickly to avoid mushy noodles.
  • Rinse pasta with cold water immediately after cooking to stop the cooking process and keep it refreshing.
  • Use fresh basil for vibrant flavor and aroma.
  • Add dressing just before serving to maintain salad crispness.
  • Customize texture by adding toasted nuts or seeds for extra crunch if desired.

Nutrition

Keywords: Angel Hair Pasta Salad, Summer Salad, Pasta Salad with Vegetables, Zesty Pasta Salad, Light Summer Lunch

Find it online: https://eazyummy.com/angel-hair-pasta-salad/