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Ditalini Pasta Salad

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4.2 from 52 reviews

Ditalini Pasta Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish featuring small ditalini pasta combined with fresh cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, black olives, and creamy mozzarella pearls. Tossed in a zesty herb-infused dressing with olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, and garlic, this salad offers a perfect balance of textures and bright flavors. Ideal for warm weather meals, potlucks, or quick satisfying lunches, it can be easily customized with your favorite vegetables or cheeses for a crowd-pleasing and versatile option.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta and Vegetables

  • 2 cups ditalini pasta
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup cucumber, diced
  • 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
  • 1/2 cup green bell pepper, diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
  • 1/2 cup mozzarella pearls or diced mozzarella
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped

Dressing

  • 1/3 cup olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon honey or sugar
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Cook the ditalini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool completely. Set aside to prepare the salad.
  2. Prepare Vegetables and Cheese: In a large bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, red and green bell peppers, finely chopped red onion, sliced black olives, mozzarella pearls, chopped parsley, and chopped basil, mixing them gently.
  3. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey (or sugar), minced garlic, salt, and pepper until the dressing is smooth and well emulsified.
  4. Toss the Salad: Add the cooled ditalini pasta to the bowl with the vegetables and cheese. Pour the dressing over the mixture and toss gently to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
  5. Chill: Refrigerate the pasta salad for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld and intensify for the best taste.
  6. Serve: Before serving, give the pasta salad a final gentle toss. Adjust salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with extra fresh basil or parsley for a fresh and appealing presentation.

Notes

  • For added protein, consider tossing in grilled chicken or chickpeas.
  • Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version.
  • The salad can be made a day ahead; just add the dressing right before serving if you prefer a fresher texture.
  • Adjust the herbs and vegetables according to your seasonal availability and personal preferences.
  • If you prefer a vegan option, substitute mozzarella with vegan cheese or omit cheese altogether.

Find it online: https://yumfoodusa.com/ditalini-pasta-salad/