Description

Patriotic Pasta Salad Jars are a vibrant and refreshing layered salad perfect for summer picnics and celebrations. Featuring red, white, and blue ingredients arranged in clear jars, this dish is not only visually appealing but also packed with fresh vegetables, pasta, and a zesty dressing that brings all the flavors together. Easy to prepare ahead, these individual salads make for convenient, portion-controlled servings that are perfect for sharing.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta Salad

2 cups rotini pasta (tri-color or plain), cooked and cooled
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup diced cucumber
1 cup diced red bell pepper
1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), halved
1/2 cup blueberries
1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves

Dressing

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 clove garlic, minced
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

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Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, approximately 10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool, then set aside.
Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until emulsified. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Combine Pasta Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, red bell pepper, mozzarella balls, blueberries, and chopped basil. Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss to coat all ingredients evenly.
Layer the Salad in Jars: Using 6 to 8 clean mason jars, evenly distribute the pasta salad mixture into each jar. Layer the ingredients for a colorful patriotic effect, placing red (tomatoes, bell peppers), white (mozzarella), and blue (blueberries) components visible through the glass.
Refrigerate and Serve: Seal the jars with lids and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Serve chilled straight from the jars or transfer to plates as desired.

Notes

Use tri-color rotini pasta for added color or plain pasta for a simpler look.
For a vegan version, omit mozzarella or substitute with vegan cheese cubes.
The salad can be prepared up to a day in advance for convenience.
Adjust the dressing ingredients to your taste, adding a pinch of sugar for sweetness if preferred.
Ensure the jars are properly sealed if transporting to maintain freshness.