Rainbow Spaghetti Pasta Salad with Tangy Vinaigrette

Right, let's get stuck in!

Recipe Introduction: Rainbow Spaghetti Pasta Salad Perfection

Quick Hook

Ever wondered what to bring to your next barbie? this vibrant spaghetti pasta salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also tastes blimmin' amazing! it's bursting with fresh veggies and a tangy vinaigrette.

Honestly, it's the summer pasta salad dreams are made of.

Brief Overview

This cold pasta salad is a staple at picnics and garden parties. it's super quick and easy, ready in about 30 minutes.

You'll get about 12 servings, making it perfect for sharing...or not! it's inspired by italian flavours with a british twist with all the favourite vegetable and cheddar cheese.

Main Benefits

This pasta salad with vegetables is packed with vitamins. it's a great way to sneak in some extra goodness. this recipe shines as a bbq side dish .

What makes this easy pasta salad recipe special? it's the balance of textures and the zingy dressing! you can even make-ahead pasta salad and it will taste even better the next day.

Ready to dive in? Let's gather the goodies!

The Key to a Cracking Rainbow Pasta Salad

Let's be honest, the star of the show is the pasta. Get that al dente, folks!

Al dente pasta salad is key, you don't want it mushy. overcooked pasta in a salad is tragic, isn't it? cook it just right - firm to the bite.

That makes all the difference.

A Vinaigrette Pasta Salad That Sings

The vinaigrette is where the magic happens! That zingy flavour just lifts the whole dish. It takes minutes to whip it up.

Don't be scared to tweak it to your taste. More honey? A dash of chilli? Go for it!

This recipe truly reflects the flavours of your picnic pasta salad recipe so if you don't have all the ingredients, there is no problem to substitue it, as long as you keep the essence of the recipe.

Alright, let's talk about what you need to make the best spaghetti pasta salad pasta salad ever! seriously, this recipe is perfect for your next picnic pasta salad recipe or even just a quick lunch.

I remember the first time i made this; the family devoured it at a bbq. honestly, it was gone in minutes.

Ingredients & Equipment

Main Ingredients

We're talking about quality here. This makes a big difference, trust me.

• Spaghetti: 1 pound (454g) . Al dente pasta salad needs al dente pasta! Don't overcook it, nobody likes soggy pasta!
• Red Bell Pepper: 1 , diced. Make sure it's firm and shiny, alright?
• Orange Bell Pepper: 1 , diced. Same as the red, find a good looking pepper.
• Yellow Bell Pepper: 1 , diced. Go with a shiny pepper as you shop.
• English Cucumber: 1 , sliced. The tighter the skin, the better.
• Cherry Tomatoes: 1 cup , quartered. Look for ripe ones!
• Cheddar Cheese: 1 cup , cubed (about 115g). A good mature cheddar is amazing.
• Red Onion: 1/2 cup , thinly sliced. It needs to be nice and sweet .
• Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup , grated/shredded (about 50g). Real parmesan, not that fake powdery stuff, yeah?
• Fresh Parsley: 1/8 cup , finely chopped (about 5g). Fresh is always best, isn't it?
• Avocado Oil: 1 cup (240 ml) . Don't be shy with it!
• Red Wine Vinegar: 1/2 cup (120 ml) . Adds that zing, you know?
• Italian Seasoning: 2 tablespoons (30 ml) . A good blend is key!
• Honey: 2 teaspoons (10 ml) . Just a touch of sweetness.
• Dried Dill: 1 teaspoon (5 ml) . Adds a nice flavor.
• Dijon Mustard: 1 teaspoon (5 ml) . For a bit of kick.
• Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon (5 ml) . Can't go wrong with garlic!
• Coarse Kosher Salt: 1 teaspoon (5 ml) . Season generously!
• Black Pepper: 1 teaspoon (5 ml) . Freshly ground is always better.

Seasoning Notes

Essential spice combinations are crucial for this cold pasta salad . italian seasoning, dill, garlic, and honey work magic. for flavor enhancers and aromatics , don't skimp on fresh parsley.

It brightens everything up.

Need quick substitution options ? If you don't have red wine vinegar, white wine vinegar works fine. No avocado oil? Olive oil will do the trick.

Equipment Needed

Essential tools only here. No fancy gadgets needed!

• Large Pot: For cooking the pasta.
• Colander: To drain the pasta.
• Medium Sized Bowl: For the vinaigrette.
• Whisk or Fork: To mix the vinaigrette.
• Large Serving Bowl: For everything else!
• Tongs: To toss the rainbow pasta salad .

Common household alternatives ? If you don't have a whisk, a fork works perfectly fine. Honestly, who even uses a whisk anyway? Just kidding!

This easy pasta salad recipe is so simple, anyone can make it. the best part? it's a total crowd pleaser and an amazing bbq side dish .

You can even make-ahead pasta salad and it tastes even better the next day. now, go make some amazing pasta salad! you got this!

Right, let's turn this recipe outline into something a bit more you, eh? Ready to get cooking?

Cooking Method: Rainbow Spaghetti Pasta Salad

Honestly, who doesn't love a good pasta salad ? especially in summer, when the sun's shining. this recipe? it's not just any spaghetti pasta salad pasta salad it's a rainbow of deliciousness! i'm talking sunshine yellow peppers, ruby red tomatoes, and a zingy vinaigrette that'll make your taste buds sing.

Think of it as instant happiness in a bowl.

Prep Steps: Getting Your Ducks in a Row

Mise en place, darling! Get everything prepped before you even think about turning on the hob. Saves a ton of time.

• Essential mise en place: Chop all the veggies. Dice the bell peppers, slice the cucumber and red onion, quarter those cherry tomatoes. Get your cheddar cheese cubed too. It's like having a mini art project, but edible.
• Time saving organization tips: Honestly, I sometimes chop the veggies the night before. Stash them in airtight containers in the fridge. Boom! Massive time saver when you are preparing your summer pasta salad!
• Safety reminders: Watch those fingers when you're chopping, yeah? No one wants a bloody pasta salad.

step-by-step Process: Let's Get Cooking!

Alright, time to roll up those sleeves.

1. Cook the Spaghetti: Cook 454g of spaghetti 8- 10 minutes . Keep testing it! You want it al dente . That’s “to the tooth” in fancy Italian.
2. Rinse and Drain: Straight after cooking, rinse the pasta under cold water. This stops it cooking and makes it perfect for a cold pasta salad .
3. Prepare the Vinaigrette: Whisk together 240 ml avocado oil, 120 ml red wine vinegar, 30 ml Italian seasoning, 10 ml honey, 5 ml dried dill, 5 ml Dijon mustard, 5 ml garlic powder, 5 ml coarse kosher salt, and 5 ml black pepper in a bowl. Taste and adjust!
4. Prep the Goodies: While the pasta's cooking, remember all those veggies you chopped? 1 orange bell pepper, 1 red bell pepper, 1 yellow bell pepper, 1 English cucumber, 1 cup cherry tomatoes, 1 cup cheddar cheese, and 1/2 cup red onion.
5. Combine Ingredients: Dump all the veggies, cheese, and 50g parmesan with the pasta in a big bowl.
6. Dress the Salad: Pour the vinaigrette over the pasta salad with vegetables .
7. Toss and Serve: Gently toss everything together. Serve right away, or chill for later.

Pro Tips: Secrets from My Kitchen

Want to take your picnic pasta salad recipe to the next level? Here are a few of my tricks:

• Expert technique: Don't overcook the pasta! Al dente pasta salad is key.
• Common mistake to avoid: Soggy salad. If you're making it ahead (this makes a super make-ahead pasta salad by the way), add the vinaigrette just before serving.
• make-ahead options: You can make this easy pasta salad recipe a day ahead! The flavors get even better. Perfect for a BBQ side dish too.

There you have it! A rainbow pasta salad that's sure to be a hit. It’s the perfect vinaigrette pasta salad for any summer pasta salad occasion. Enjoy!

Alright, let's dive into the nitty gritty bits, the recipe notes ! this is where we really make this rainbow spaghetti pasta salad shine.

Honestly, it's more than just a recipe, it’s about making memories!

Let's Get Serving!

Plating: Making It Look the Bees Knees

Presentation matters, right? nobody wants a sad-looking bowl. think vibrant! layer the spaghetti pasta salad pasta salad in a clear bowl so you can see all those lovely colours.

Garnish with extra parsley, or even a sprinkle of parmesan. if you are feeling posh, arrange individual servings on plates for a more formal touch.

Honestly, even just a few strategically placed cherry tomatoes makes a difference.

Sides & Sips: Perfect Partners

This cold pasta salad is super versatile. it goes brilliantly with grilled chicken or fish. classic bbq fare, you know? corn on the cob is a must too.

And for drinks? a chilled glass of lemonade or iced tea is spot on. i remember once serving it with a fruity punch at a summer pasta salad gathering.

Everyone raved about it!

Storage Secrets

Fridge Freshening

Got leftovers? no worries! pop the pasta salad with vegetables into an airtight container and it'll be grand in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Make sure it's properly chilled though, nobody wants dodgy tummies.

Freezing? Hmm, Not Really

Honestly, freezing this picnic pasta salad recipe isn't ideal. The veggies can get a bit mushy. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days.

Reheating (Don't!)

This is a make-ahead pasta salad , so you will not want to reheat the salad. it's designed to be served cold pasta salad .

Reheating it would ruin the texture and, honestly, it just wouldn't taste the same.

Twists and Turns

Dietary Do-Overs

Want a veggie version? Easy peasy! Just swap out the cheese for a vegan alternative. For gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta. Sorted!

Seasonal Swaps

In the summer, try adding grilled courgette or some fresh basil. Come autumn, roasted butternut squash or some crispy kale could add a seasonal twist.

Nitty Gritty Numbers

Nutrition 101

Okay, so roughly, each serving packs about 350 calories. it's got protein, carbs, and healthy fats from the vinaigrette pasta salad .

Plus, all those veggies are great for vitamins and fibre. this easy pasta salad recipe isn't just tasty, it's good for you too!

Right then! now you have the lowdown on how to make this rainbow pasta salad a real winner. don't be afraid to experiment and put your own spin on it.

Go on, get cooking! i promise this bbq side dish will be the talk of the party! and remember to cook the pasta al dente pasta salad , nobody likes mushy pasta!