Simple Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing You Can’t Get Enough Of

Looking for a vibrant and refreshing dish that captures the essence of summer? This Italian pasta salad is the perfect choice.

It’s light yet satisfying, making it an ideal side for picnics, barbecues, or a quick lunch. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up leftover pasta!

Simple Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing

This Italian pasta salad combines al dente pasta with crunchy vegetables and creamy cheese, all tossed in a tangy Italian dressing. The result is a dish bursting with flavor that’s both satisfying and refreshing.

Ingredients

• 8 oz pasta (fusilli, rotini, or penne work well)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup cucumber, diced
• 1/2 cup bell pepper, diced (red, yellow, or green)
• 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
• 1/2 cup mozzarella balls, halved
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/2 cup Italian dressing (store-bought or homemade)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
2. Prepare the Vegetables: While the pasta is cooking, chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, olives, mozzarella, and red onion.
3. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chopped vegetables, mozzarella, and parsley.
4. Dress the Salad: Pour the Italian dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently until everything is coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Chill and Serve: For best flavor, refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Serve cold or at room temperature.

Cook and Prep Times

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Nutrition Information

• Servings: 4-6 servings
• Calories: 250 kcal per serving
• Fat: 12g
• Protein: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 30g

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Imagine colorful veggies mingling with pasta, all tossed in a zesty Italian dressing that brings everything together.

This recipe is not just about taste; it’s also about the beautiful presentation, with a rainbow of ingredients that will impress your guests.

Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this pasta salad recipe is simple, flexible, and can be tailored to your taste preferences.

The Vibrant Ingredients of Italian Pasta Salad

This pasta salad is a feast for the eyes, featuring rotini pasta complemented by a rainbow of fresh vegetables. Cherry tomatoes add a juicy sweetness, while diced cucumbers provide a satisfying crunch. Bell peppers introduce a mild sweetness and a pop of color that brightens the dish.

The addition of mozzarella balls not only enhances the flavor but also brings a delightful creaminess to each bite. Together, these ingredients create a visually appealing and delicious combination, perfect for any gathering or picnic setting.

Preparing the Pasta and Vegetables

The preparation of this salad is straightforward, making it a go-to option for both seasoned cooks and beginners. Start by cooking the pasta until it reaches an al dente texture, then rinse it under cold water to halt the cooking process. This step is key to achieving the perfect pasta consistency.

While the pasta cools, chop up the fresh vegetables. The vibrant colors of the ingredients will come together beautifully, promising a dish that is as appetizing as it is nutritious. Make sure to cut everything into bite-sized pieces for easy eating.

Tossing it All Together

Once your pasta and vegetables are ready, it’s time to bring them together in a large mixing bowl. Combine the cooled pasta, chopped cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, and mozzarella balls.

To enhance the flavors, pour a generous amount of Italian dressing over the mixture. Toss gently until everything is well coated; this helps to ensure that every bite is infused with flavor. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste, adding a little extra zing to this vibrant dish.

Chilling for Flavor

For the best results, allow the salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This resting period lets the flavors meld, resulting in a more cohesive taste profile.

During this time, the ingredients will absorb the zesty dressing, ensuring that your pasta salad is bursting with flavor when it’s finally served. Whether you choose to enjoy it cold or at room temperature, the salad will maintain its deliciousness.

A Perfect Addition to Any Table

This Italian pasta salad is ideal for outdoor picnics, family gatherings, or casual weeknight dinners. Its vibrant presentation invites everyone to dig in, making it a centerpiece that draws attention on any table.

Surrounding the salad with fresh herbs adds an extra touch of charm, enhancing both the visual appeal and the aromatic experience. Serve it alongside grilled meats or keep it as a delightful standalone dish; either way, it is sure to be a hit.

Customizing Your Salad

One of the best aspects of pasta salad is its versatility. Feel free to modify the ingredients based on your preferences or what’s available in your pantry.

For instance, you could experiment with different pasta shapes, add olives for a briny kick, or include other vegetables like spinach or artichokes. Each variation allows for a delightful twist on this classic dish, ensuring that it never becomes monotonous.

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