Mediterranean Pasta Salad with Creamy Italian Dressing

Welcome the sun with this delightful Mediterranean Pasta Salad tossed in a luscious homemade creamy Italian dressing. With vibrant colors and fresh, flavorful ingredients like cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and arugula, this salad is sure to be a hit at any gathering. Perfect for warm weather, it's light yet satisfying, making it the ideal dish for picnics or outdoor dinners.

Ingredients

🍝 1 pound of pasta of choice
🌿 Arugula (as much as you want)
🍅 8 oz cherry tomatoes (cut in half)
🧅 1 small red onion (sliced)
🫘 15.5 oz can chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
🌾 2 cups artichoke hearts (cut into fourths)
🫒 1 cup Kalamata olives (cut in half)
🌶️ 1 12 oz jar of roasted red peppers (chopped)
🧀 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese (chopped)
🌿 1/2 cup fresh parsley (chopped)

Creamy Italian Dressing Ingredients

🥄 1 cup mayonnaise
🍚 1/4 cup rice vinegar
🍋 1/4 cup lemon juice
🫒 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
🧄 1 clove of garlic (minced)
🥄 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
🍯 2 tablespoons honey
🌿 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
🌿 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
🌶️ 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes
🌶️ 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
🧂 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)

Instructions

1- Prepare the Dressing:

• Combine all dressing ingredients in a mason jar.
• Secure the lid and shake vigorously until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
• Set aside at room temperature to allow flavors to meld while you prepare the rest of the salad.

2- Cook the Pasta:

• Boil pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
• Drain and let it cool.

3- Prepare Salad Ingredients:

• While the pasta is cooking, chop and prepare all other salad ingredients.
• Remember to drain and rinse the chickpeas.

4- Assemble the Salad:

• In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, arugula, cherry tomatoes, red onion, chickpeas, artichoke hearts, Kalamata olives, roasted red peppers, mozzarella, and fresh parsley.

5- Dress and Toss:

• Pour the prepared dressing over the salad.
• Toss gently until all ingredients are well coated.
• Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours to further develop flavors.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 8
Calories: ~420 per serving
Protein: ~15g per serving
Fats: ~25g per serving
Carbohydrates: ~40g per serving

Equipment:

• Large pot
• Colander
• Large mixing bowl
• Mason jar
• Knife and cutting board

Cooking Tips

• For a richer flavor, let the salad sit for a while before serving.
• Try adding grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.

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Mediterranean Pasta Salad with Creamy Italian Dressing