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Italian Pasta Salad Recipe: An Incredible Ultimate Guide


  • Author: Lauren Baker
  • Total Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients

– 12 oz. tri-color rotini pasta
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup cucumber, diced
– 1 cup bell pepper (red, yellow, or green), diced
– 1 cup black olives, sliced
– 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 1 cup mozzarella cheese, cubed or mini balls
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/2 cup Italian dressing (store-bought or homemade)
– Salt and pepper to taste


Instructions

Creating this Italian Pasta Salad is a straightforward process. Follow these simple steps to ensure success:

1. Cook Pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the tri-color rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
2. Prep Vegetables: While the pasta cooks, chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, and olives. Aim for uniform sizes for even mixing.
3. Combine in a Bowl: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the chopped vegetables. Pour in the black olives, mozzarella cheese, and chopped parsley.
4. Add Dressing: Drizzle the Italian dressing over the pasta and vegetables. Start with a little, then add more to taste.
5. Season: Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste. Toss everything gently until well combined.
6. Chill (Optional): If time allows, cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
7. Toss Again: Before serving, give the salad a good toss to redistribute the dressing and flavors.
8. Serve and Enjoy: Dish out your Italian Pasta Salad into bowls or on a serving platter.

These steps will guide you in preparing an amazing dish effortlessly.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 300 kcal
  • Fat: 12g
  • Protein: To make the salad more filling, consider adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for added protein.