Back-to-School Pasta Salad

As the summer days fade and the school bell rings once more, parents and students alike feel the familiar rush of back-to-school season. This transition often brings about a whirlwind of activities, from early morning commutes to after-school programs, leaving little time for elaborate meal preparations. Amidst this busy schedule, it is crucial to prioritize nutritious, easy-to-make meals that fuel young minds and bodies. One standout option that embodies this convenience and healthful goodness is the Back-to-School Pasta Salad.

Get ready for the school year with this delicious Back-to-School Pasta Salad! Perfect for busy mornings or quick dinners, this nutritious dish combines whole wheat pasta and an array of vibrant vegetables like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and bell peppers. Tossed in a flavorful dressing of olive oil and red wine vinegar, this salad is customizable and packed with vitamins and fiber. It’s an easy, satisfying meal that will keep everyone energized and happy during those hectic school days!

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Ingredients

8 oz whole wheat pasta (fusilli or rotini)

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup cucumber, diced

1 cup bell peppers (mix of colors), diced

1 cup sweet corn, canned or frozen

1/2 cup black olives, sliced

1/2 cup mozzarella balls, halved

1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped

1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced

1/3 cup olive oil

2 tbsp red wine vinegar

1 tsp Italian seasoning

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the whole wheat pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool the pasta down. Set aside.

Prepare the Vegetables: While the pasta is cooking, prepare the vegetables. Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber and bell peppers, slice the olives and red onion thinly, and chop the fresh basil.

Mix the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until well combined. This will be your flavorful dressing.

Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell peppers, sweet corn, black olives, mozzarella balls, red onion, and fresh basil.

Add Dressing: Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss gently to ensure that all ingredients are well coated with the dressing.

Taste and Adjust: Taste the pasta salad and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more salt, pepper, or vinegar to suit your preference.

Chill and Serve: Cover the pasta salad with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Prep Time: 20 mins | Total Time: 50 mins | Servings: 6-8