# Components:
→ Pasta
01 - 10.5 oz budget-friendly dried pasta (e.g., fusilli, penne, or rotini)
02 - Salt, for cooking water
→ Seasonal Vegetables
03 - 1 small zucchini, diced
04 - 1 red bell pepper, diced
05 - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
06 - 1 cup cucumber, diced
07 - 2 carrots, grated or thinly sliced
08 - 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
→ Simple Dressing
09 - 4 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
10 - 2 tbsp lemon juice (or white wine vinegar)
11 - 1 tsp Dijon mustard
12 - 1 clove garlic, minced
13 - 1 tsp honey (or maple syrup for vegan option)
14 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
→ Optional Add-ins
15 - 1.75 oz feta cheese, crumbled (omit for vegan)
16 - 2 tbsp chopped fresh herbs (parsley, basil, or dill)
17 - 2 tbsp toasted sunflower or pumpkin seeds
# Directions:
01 - Boil salted water in a large pot and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
02 - Wash, dice, and slice the seasonal vegetables as described.
03 - Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, honey, salt, and pepper in a large bowl until emulsified.
04 - Add the cooled pasta and prepared vegetables to the dressing. Toss gently to coat evenly.
05 - Incorporate optional add-ins such as feta cheese, fresh herbs, or toasted seeds if desired. Adjust seasoning accordingly.
06 - Serve immediately or chill for 30 minutes to enhance flavors. Toss again before serving.
