and a detailed description:

**"Easy and Delicious Pasta Salad Recipe with Red Wine Vinegar for Summer Picnics"**When it comes to summer picnics, there's nothing quite as refreshing and……

**"Easy and Delicious Pasta Salad Recipe with Red Wine Vinegar for Summer Picnics"**

When it comes to summer picnics, there's nothing quite as refreshing and satisfying as a pasta salad recipe with red wine vinegar. This dish is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it to your taste preferences. Below, we'll walk you through a detailed, step-by-step guide to creating this delightful salad, ensuring it's a hit at any gathering.

### Ingredients

To start, gather the following ingredients:

- 1 pound of your favorite pasta (fusilli, rotini, or penne work well)

- 1/2 cup of red wine vinegar

- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced

- 1/2 cup yellow bell pepper, diced

- 1/2 cup cucumber, diced

- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped

- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced

- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled

- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped

- Salt and pepper to taste

### Instructions

#### Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Begin by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions. Make sure to cook it al dente, as this will help the pasta hold up better in the salad. Once cooked, drain and rinse the pasta under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down.

#### Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

While the pasta is cooking, prepare your vegetables. Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the bell peppers and cucumber, finely chop the red onion, and slice the black olives. Place all the vegetables in a large mixing bowl.

#### Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the red wine vinegar and extra virgin olive oil until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This simple yet flavorful dressing is what sets this pasta salad recipe with red wine vinegar apart from others.

#### Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Add the cooked and cooled pasta to the bowl with the vegetables. Pour the dressing over the top and toss everything together until the pasta and vegetables are evenly coated. Add the crumbled feta cheese and chopped fresh basil, gently tossing to combine.

#### Step 5: Chill and Serve

For the best flavor, cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least an hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. When you're ready to serve, give the salad a quick toss and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

### Tips for Customization

One of the best things about this pasta salad recipe with red wine vinegar is its versatility. Here are a few ideas to customize it to your liking:

- **Protein Addition:** Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a protein boost.

- **Vegetable Variations:** Feel free to add or substitute vegetables based on what's in season or your personal preferences. Zucchini, artichoke hearts, and sun-dried tomatoes are great options.

- **Cheese Choices:** If you're not a fan of feta, try mozzarella pearls, goat cheese, or even Parmesan.

- **Herb Enhancements:** Fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or oregano can add a delightful twist.

### Why This Recipe Works

This pasta salad recipe with red wine vinegar is a crowd-pleaser for several reasons:

1. **Balance of Flavors:** The tangy red wine vinegar dressing perfectly complements the sweetness of the cherry tomatoes and the saltiness of the feta cheese.

2. **Texture Variety:** The crunchy vegetables and creamy cheese provide a delightful contrast to the tender pasta.

3. **Make-Ahead Friendly:** This salad can be made in advance, making it ideal for picnics, potlucks, and meal prep.

### Conclusion

Whether you're planning a summer picnic, a casual family dinner, or just looking for a delicious meal prep option, this pasta salad recipe with red wine vinegar is sure to impress. Its combination of fresh ingredients, vibrant colors, and bold flavors make it a standout dish that's both easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying. Give it a try and watch it become a staple in your recipe repertoire!