Are you looking for a delicious and healthy way to enjoy the summer sunshine? Look no further than Grilled Veggie Pasta Salad! This flavorful dish combines the smoky goodness of grilled vegetables with the heartiness of pasta, all dressed in a zesty vinaigrette. Not only is it a crowd-pleaser at picnics and BBQs, but it's also easy to make and packed with nutrients. Read on to learn more about this tasty salad and how to make it yourself.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb. pasta (penne, fusilli, or rotini work well)
- 2 bell peppers, sliced
- 2 zucchinis, sliced lengthwise
- 1 eggplant, sliced
- 1 red onion, sliced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp. balsamic vinegar
- 1 tsp. Dijon mustard
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: fresh herbs such as basil or parsley, chopped
Instructions:
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
- Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
- Brush the vegetables with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Grill the vegetables for 2-3 minutes per side, until tender and lightly charred.
- Cut the grilled vegetables into bite-sized pieces.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the remaining olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and salt and pepper to make the vinaigrette.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, grilled vegetables, and vinaigrette. Toss to combine.
- If desired, sprinkle with chopped herbs before serving.
Nutritional Values of Grilled Veggie Pasta Salad:
This salad is not only delicious but it's also packed with nutrients. The grilled vegetables provide fiber, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants, while the pasta adds energy-boosting carbohydrates. The vinaigrette, made with heart-healthy olive oil and flavorful balsamic vinegar, is a lighter alternative to heavier dressings. One serving of Grilled Veggie Pasta Salad (1/6 of the recipe) contains approximately:
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 13 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Protein: 9 g
- Fiber: 6 g
- Sodium: 180 mg
How to Store Grilled Veggie Pasta Salad:
This salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The pasta may absorb some of the vinaigrette as it sits, so you may need to add a bit more before serving. If you're making this salad ahead of time, it's best to wait to add the fresh herbs until just before serving to keep them from wilting.
Tips on Making Grilled Veggie Pasta Salad:
- Use a variety of colorful vegetables for maximum flavor and nutrition.
- Don't overcook the vegetables on the grill or they may become too soft.
- Rinse the cooked pasta with cold water to cool it down and prevent it from sticking together.
- Make the vinaigrette in advance to allow the flavors to meld together.
- For a creamier dressing, whisk in a bit of Greek yogurt or mayonnaise.
With its smoky, savory flavors and fresh, crunchy veggies, Grilled Veggie Pasta Salad is sure to be a hit at your next gathering. Plus, it's an easy way to get your daily dose of veggies