The Easiest 4-Ingredient Pasta Salad We're Making All Summer

Summer is the perfect time for easy, refreshing meals that don't require spending hours in a hot kitchen. That's why we're obsessed with this super simple 4-ingredient pasta salad that has become a staple in our summer meal rotation. Not only is it quick and easy to make, but it's also incredibly delicious and satisfying.

Ingredients

The best part about this pasta salad is that it only requires four simple ingredients:

1. Pasta - Any type of short pasta will work well for this salad, such as penne, rotini, or bowtie pasta.

2. Cherry tomatoes - These little bursts of sweetness add a pop of color and flavor to the salad.

3. Fresh basil - The bright, herbaceous flavor of fresh basil is a must for this salad. If you can, use fresh basil from your garden for the best flavor.

4. Italian dressing - A good quality Italian dressing is the key to tying all the flavors together in this pasta salad. You can use store-bought or make your own if you're feeling ambitious.

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and rinse the pasta under cold water to stop the cooking process.

2. While the pasta is cooking, halve the cherry tomatoes and chop the fresh basil.

3. In a large bowl, combine the cooked and cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, and fresh basil.

4. Pour the Italian dressing over the pasta mixture and toss to coat everything evenly.

5. Chill the pasta salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

That's it! In just a few simple steps, you have a delicious pasta salad that's perfect for summer picnics, barbecues, or just a quick and easy weeknight meal.

Customization

While this 4-ingredient pasta salad is delicious as is, you can easily customize it to suit your preferences. Additions such as grilled chicken, diced bell peppers, or olives can take this simple salad to the next level. You can also switch up the type of pasta or dressing to create new flavor combinations.

Additionally, if you're looking to make this salad a bit heartier, consider adding some protein such as chickpeas, tuna, or grilled shrimp. The possibilities are endless when it comes to customizing this easy pasta salad.

Conclusion

With just four simple ingredients and minimal prep time, this 4-ingredient pasta salad is a must-try for the summer season. Whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue or just need a quick and easy meal for a busy weeknight, this pasta salad is sure to become a favorite in your recipe arsenal. So grab a bowl and enjoy the fresh flavors of this delicious summer dish!