Go Back
Elbow Pasta Summer Salad

Elbow Pasta Summer Salad

A refreshing Elbow Pasta Summer Salad featuring fresh vegetables and a zesty vinaigrette, perfect for summer gatherings.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings servings
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 285

Ingredients
  

  • 16 oz Dry Elbow Macaroni
  • 1 large Red Bell Pepper, diced
  • 1 medium English Cucumber, diced
  • 1 pint Cherry Tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 small Red Onion, finely minced
  • 2 stalks Celery Stalks, sliced
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Italian Parsley, chopped
  • 1/2 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil
  • 1/3 cup Apple Cider Vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon Honey or Maple Syrup
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard
  • Salt and Black Pepper to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon Garlic Powder

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package directions, but for one minute less for al dente texture.
  2. Drain the pasta and rinse under cold running water to stop the cooking process. Set aside in a large mixing bowl.
  3. Prepare the vegetables: dice the red bell pepper and cucumber, halve the cherry tomatoes, finely mince the red onion, and slice the celery.
  4. Add all the prepared vegetables to the bowl with the cooled pasta and toss gently.
  5. In a small jar or bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
  6. Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetables, folding gently to coat everything evenly.
  7. Stir in the chopped parsley and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Notes

For best flavor, let the salad sit for at least 30 minutes before serving. It can be made ahead of time, but add fresh herbs just before serving.