Pasta salad is almost always the most disappointing side dish at the picnic or cookout, but this recipe shows you how to transform what is normally an afterthought to a dish that's good enough to enjoy on its own, or as the perfect complement to grilled meat. Top this with extra fresh chopped herbs if you like.
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 0.25 cups cider vinegar
- 0.25 cups rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 teaspoons white sugar
- 1 pinch cayenne pepper
- 1 cup olive oil
- 2 teaspoons chopped fresh tarragon
- 2 teaspoons chopped fresh dill
- 2 teaspoons chopped fresh Italian parsley
- 1 teaspoon chopped fresh chives
- 1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme
Instructions
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1
Whisk Dijon mustard, cider vinegar, rice vinegar, salt, sugar, and cayenne together in a large bowl for about 30 seconds. Whisk in olive oil in 1-teaspoon increments until emulsified. Whisk in tarragon, dill, parsley, chives, and thyme. Remove and reserve 1/2 of the dressing in a separate small bowl.
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2
Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil; cook pasta at a boil until tender yet firm to the bite, about 8 minutes. Add snow peas, carrots, peas, and broccoli about 2 minutes before the pasta is done. Drain pasta and veggies well, but do not rinse.
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3
Transfer hot pasta mixture to the vinaigrette in the large mixing bowl and toss well to combine. Let rest for 5 minutes and toss again. Toss occasionally until the mixture is almost room temperature, 15 to 20 minutes.
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4
Add bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, red onion, green onions, salt, and the reserved dressing and toss well.
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5
You can serve this right away, but for best results, cover with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for 4 to 6 hours. Toss and adjust seasoning before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Per serving
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