Sunshine pasta is a delightful and refreshing dish that brings a burst of flavors to your table. This recipe combines the goodness of fresh vegetables, herbs, and a tangy dressing to create a vibrant and satisfying meal. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress your guests, this savory sunshine pasta is sure to please.
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Savory Sunshine Pasta Recipe
Ingredients
- 8 ounces Pasta penne, fusilli, or rotini
- 1 cup Cherry tomatoes halved
- 1 cup Yellow bell pepper diced
- 1 cup Zucchini diced
- 1/2 cup Red onion thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup Black olives sliced
- 1/4 cup Fresh basil leaves chopped
- 1/4 cup Fresh parsley leaves chopped
- 3 tablespoons Extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons Lemon juice
- 2 cloves Garlic minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, yellow bell pepper, zucchini, red onion, black olives, basil, and parsley.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper. Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss to coat.
- Add the cooked pasta to the bowl and gently toss until all the ingredients are well combined.
- Let the pasta salad sit for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve the sunshine pasta at room temperature or chilled. Garnish with additional fresh herbs if desired.
Nutritional Facts
Here are the approximate nutritional values per serving of sunshine pasta:
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 49g
- Fat: 14g
- Fiber: 5g
Variations
While the basic sunshine pasta recipe is delicious on its own, you can customize it to suit your taste preferences. Here are a few variations you can try:
- Add grilled chicken or shrimp for an extra protein boost.
- Swap the vegetables with your favorites, such as cucumbers, corn, or peas.
- Experiment with different herbs like mint or cilantro for a unique twist.
- Sprinkle some feta cheese or Parmesan on top for added richness.
FAQs
Yes, you can prepare the sunshine pasta a few hours in advance and refrigerate it until ready to serve. Just give it a good toss before serving to redistribute the dressing.
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta is a nutritious alternative that adds extra fiber to the dish.
Yes, you can use white wine vinegar or balsamic vinegar instead of lemon juice for a different flavor profile.
The leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, the pasta may become slightly softer over time.
While the sunshine pasta is traditionally served at room temperature or chilled, you can certainly enjoy it warm if you prefer.
Conclusion
Sunshine pasta is a versatile and vibrant dish that brings a taste of summer to any occasion. With its colorful array of vegetables, zesty dressing, and satisfying pasta, it’s a recipe that is both delicious and nutritious. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply looking for a quick and easy meal, this savory sunshine pasta is a must-try.