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Angel Hair Pasta Salad Recipe

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4.3 from 5 reviews

This refreshing Angel Hair Pasta Salad combines tender angel hair pasta with fresh cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, and black olives, all tossed in a zesty lemon and extra-virgin olive oil dressing. Garnished with crumbled feta cheese and fresh parsley, this light and vibrant salad is perfect for a quick lunch or a summer side dish.

Ingredients

Pasta

  • 8 ounces angel hair pasta

Vegetables and Herbs

  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup diced cucumber
  • 3/4 cup diced red bell pepper
  • 1/2 cup diced red onion
  • 1/3 cup black olives, sliced
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Dressing and Garnish

  • 4 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • Juice of 2 lemons
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Crumbled feta cheese, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the angel hair pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process, then set aside to cool.
  2. Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta with the halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, sliced black olives, and chopped fresh parsley.
  3. Dress the salad: Drizzle the extra-virgin olive oil and lemon juice over the salad. Sprinkle the lemon zest, then season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  4. Toss and serve: Gently toss the salad to mix all ingredients well. Serve immediately for a fresh taste, or chill in the refrigerator to allow the flavors to meld. Before serving, sprinkle with crumbled feta cheese for added flavor and texture.

Notes

  • Rinsing the pasta under cold water stops the cooking process and helps keep the pasta from becoming mushy in the salad.
  • Feel free to substitute black olives with Kalamata olives for a more robust flavor.
  • Chilling the salad for at least 30 minutes enhances the flavors and offers a refreshing taste.
  • For a vegan version, omit the feta cheese or use a plant-based alternative.