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Pasta salads have become a beloved staple in kitchens around the world, celebrated for their versatility and ability to cater to diverse tastes and dietary preferences. From casual family dinners to potlucks and picnics, pasta salads can be customized with an array of ingredients, making them a delightful option for any occasion. Among the myriad of recipes, the Rainbow Veggie Pasta Jars stand out as a vibrant and healthy choice, enticing both the eyes and the palate.

Rainbow Veggie Pasta Jars

Discover the vibrant and nutritious Rainbow Veggie Pasta Jars, perfect for meal prep and packed with colorful vegetables! This recipe offers endless customization while providing a healthy balance of flavors. Each jar showcases layers of spiral pasta and fresh veggies like bell peppers, cucumbers, and spinach, all drizzled with a tangy dressing. Ideal for picnics or quick lunches, these eye-catching jars not only delight the palate but also promote well-being. Get ready to impress with this deliciously simple dish!
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Ingredients
  

2 cups spiral pasta (choose whole wheat or gluten-free for dietary preferences)

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup bell peppers (use a mix of red, yellow, and green), diced

1 cup cucumbers, diced

1 cup carrots, grated

1 cup purple cabbage, finely shredded

1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped

1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil

2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

1 tablespoon honey (or substitute with agave syrup for a vegan option)

Salt and pepper to taste

Optional: Grated Parmesan cheese or nutritional yeast for topping

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the spiral pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture. Once done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to halt the cooking process. Set aside to cool completely.

    Prepare the Dressing: In a small mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper. Use a whisk to blend the ingredients well until the dressing is smooth. Taste and adjust the seasoning to suit your palate.

      Layer the Veggies: For each jar, begin by creating a colorful base. Start with a handful of halved cherry tomatoes at the bottom. Next, add a layer of diced bell peppers, followed by a layer of grated carrots, and finish this section with a generous portion of shredded purple cabbage.

        Add Cucumbers and Pasta: Continue the layering by adding a delightful amount of diced cucumbers. Then, spoon in a layer of the cooled pasta, pressing down gently to ensure everything is nicely packed into the jar.

          Finish with Fresh Herbs: Top each jar with a handful of chopped fresh basil. If desired, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese or a dusting of nutritional yeast to enhance the flavor profile.

            Dress and Seal: Drizzle the prepared dressing evenly over the contents of each jar, ensuring there’s just enough to lightly coat everything. Seal the jars tightly with their lids to maintain freshness.

              Chill and Serve: Place the completed jars in the refrigerator and let them chill for at least 30 minutes. When you’re ready to enjoy your vibrant salad, shake the jar gently or pour its contents into a bowl for a beautiful presentation.

                Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes | Servings: 4 jars