Description
A colorful, flavor-packed pasta salad perfect for gatherings or a cozy dinner at home.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups Rotini or Penne Pasta
- 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup Cucumber, diced
- 1 cup Bell Peppers (Red & Yellow), chopped
- 1/2 cup Olives (Kalamata or Black), sliced
- 1 cup Pepperoni or Salami, quartered
- 1 cup Mozzarella Balls, halved
- 1/2 cup Italian Dressing
- 1/4 cup Fresh Basil, chopped
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Begin by cooking your chosen pasta according to the package instructions. Aim for al dente. Once done, drain and rinse under cold water.
- Chop the Veggies: Chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and bell peppers into bite-sized pieces.
- Prepare the Cheese and Meats: If using mozzarella balls, drain and slice them. If using pepperoni or salami, slice into quarters.
- Mix It All Together: In a large bowl, combine your cooled pasta, chopped veggies, cheese, and meat (if using). Toss gently.
- Dress It Up: Whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Pour over the salad and toss.
- Let It Chill: Cover the salad and let it rest in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
- Serve and Enjoy: Before serving, give it another toss and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Notes
This salad can be made ahead of time and tastes even better after a night in the fridge.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Cold
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: pasta salad, Italian salad, easy pasta recipe, vegetarian salad, summer recipe