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Backyard Summer Pasta Primavera with Iced Coffee Vinaigrette

A vibrant pasta salad tossed with fresh summer vegetables and a tangy, lightly sweet iced coffee vinaigrette. The coffee adds a subtle roastiness that deepens the tomato and herb flavors.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course or Side Dish
Cuisine: American-Italian
Calories: 285

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz 225g short pasta (farfalle, penne, or rotini)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1 medium zucchini diced into 1/2-inch cubes
  • 1 yellow bell pepper diced into 1/2-inch cubes
  • 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves torn
  • 1/4 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese optional
  • For the Iced Coffee Vinaigrette:
  • 3 tablespoons strong brewed iced coffee unsweetened, cooled to room temp
  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1 small garlic clove minced
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon black pepper

Equipment

  • large pot
  • colander
  • chef's knife
  • cutting board
  • small bowl
  • whisk
  • large mixing bowl
  • measuring spoons
  • citrus juicer

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente (about 1 minute less than package directions). Drain, rinse under cold running water to stop cooking, and let drain thoroughly.
  2. While the pasta cooks, make the vinaigrette. In a small bowl, whisk together the iced coffee, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, garlic, salt, and pepper until emulsified. Taste and adjust salt or acid if needed.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, zucchini, bell pepper, and torn basil.
  4. Pour the vinaigrette over the vegetables and pasta. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
  5. If using, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately at room temperature, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours to let flavors meld. Stir once before serving.

Notes

Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The pasta will absorb some dressing; refresh with a splash of olive oil or a squeeze of lemon before serving. For a vegan version, omit the Parmesan or use a plant-based alternative. The coffee flavor is subtle—if you want it more pronounced, use a dark-roast cold brew and increase to 4 tablespoons.