Description
A vibrant and flavorful Italian Pasta Salad that combines pasta, fresh vegetables, mozzarella, and Italian dressing. Perfect for any summer meal, BBQ, picnic, or family dinner.
Ingredients
12 oz. rotini or any short pasta
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup cucumber, diced
1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/2 cup black olives, sliced
1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, cubed
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
1/2 cup Italian dressing (store-bought or homemade)
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to the package directions. Once done, drain and rinse it under cold water to cool it down quickly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, mozzarella, and fresh basil.
- Pour the Italian dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat everything evenly. Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Cover the salad and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to blend together.
Notes
For a protein boost, add grilled chicken, turkey, or pepperoni.
If mozzarella isn't your choice, feta or cheddar are good alternatives.
Consider balsamic vinaigrette for a different flavor profile.
To increase the veggie count, add bell peppers, spinach, or roasted red peppers.
To make it gluten-free, swap out the pasta for a gluten-free variety.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Cold Salad
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
