This crisp and colorful salad is perfect for a light, refreshing meal any time of the day. Packed with fresh veggies and a simple dressing, it’s both healthy and delicious.
Prep Time20 min
Cook Time8 min
Total Time28 min
Difficulty
Medium
Chef's Cooking Tips
Use the freshest vegetables you can find for the best flavor and crunch.
Chop vegetables into similar sizes to ensure even mixing and easy eating.
Add a squeeze of lemon juice right before serving to keep the salad crisp and bright.
Ingredients
0/15
What Makes This Dish So Tasty
This salad is a vibrant mix of fresh vegetables that bring a burst of color and nutrients to your plate. It’s light, refreshing, and perfect for warm days or as a healthy side dish any time of year.
Step 1
Boil a big pot of water, then cook the rotini until it’s tender but still has a bit of bite—about 8 minutes. Once it’s done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down completely. Give it another good drain and toss the pasta into a large bowl.
Step 2
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, vinegar, and honey until well combined. Pour this dressing over the pasta and toss everything together so the noodles get nicely coated.
Step 3
Add in the tomatoes, sweet onion, cucumber, carrots, celery, garlic, green onions, parsley, and cilantro one at a time, folding each in gently. This helps spread all those fresh flavors evenly throughout the salad. Finish by seasoning with some freshly ground black pepper to taste, and give it one last gentle toss before serving.
33
people cooked this recipe
ByDavid Brown
David shares approachable recipes, helpful cooking tips, and simple meal ideas.
Serving Advice
Serve this salad chilled alongside grilled chicken or fish for a balanced meal. It also pairs well with crusty bread or can be enjoyed on its own as a light lunch.
Storing This Dish
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To keep the salad fresh, avoid adding dressing until just before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad without pasta?
Yes, the pasta is optional. You can omit it for a lighter, vegetable-only salad.
How long should I cook the pasta?
Cook the rotini for about 8 minutes until tender but still slightly firm.
Can I use a different type of vinegar in the dressing?
Yes, you can substitute red wine vinegar with apple cider vinegar or balsamic vinegar.
Should I peel the cucumber before adding it?
Yes, peeling the cucumber is recommended for a smoother texture and less bitterness.
How long can I store this salad?
It’s best eaten fresh but can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Can I prepare this salad in advance?
Yes, you can prepare it a few hours ahead and keep it chilled before serving.
What can I use instead of fresh cilantro?
You can use fresh basil or omit it if you’re not a fan of cilantro.
Is it necessary to rinse the pasta with cold water after cooking?
Yes, rinsing cools the pasta and prevents it from sticking together.
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