Looking for a refreshing and hassle-free dish to enjoy during the summer months? Look no further than this easy cold pasta salad recipe. Packed with vibrant flavors and colorful ingredients, this dish is perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a light lunch or dinner option. In just a few simple steps, you can create a delicious and satisfying meal that will impress your family and friends.

To start, gather the following ingredients: 2 cups of cooked pasta (any shape you prefer), 1 cup of cherry tomatoes (halved), 1 cup of cucumber (diced), 1/2 cup of red onion (thinly sliced), 1/4 cup of black olives (sliced), 1/4 cup of feta cheese (crumbled), and a handful of fresh basil leaves (chopped).

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, black olives, and feta cheese. Toss gently to ensure all the ingredients are well mixed.

Next, prepare the dressing by whisking together 1/4 cup of olive oil, 2 tablespoons of red wine vinegar, 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard, 1 clove of garlic (minced), salt, and pepper to taste. Drizzle the dressing over the pasta salad and toss again to coat everything evenly.

Allow the salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together. This will also help the pasta salad become even more refreshing.

When ready to serve, sprinkle the chopped basil leaves over the top for an added burst of freshness. You can also garnish with additional feta cheese if desired.

In just a few simple steps, you can create a delicious and refreshing easy cold pasta salad. This versatile dish can be customized to your liking by adding or substituting ingredients. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or simply looking for a quick and satisfying meal, this recipe is sure to be a hit. So, grab your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a flavorful and easy-to-make pasta salad that will leave everyone wanting more.