Description
This Italian Pasta Salad is a fresh and vibrant dish perfect for any meal or gathering. Featuring rotini pasta, fresh vegetables, olives, mozzarella, and a flavorful Italian dressing, it’s a simple yet delicious recipe that comes together quickly. Whether served chilled as a side dish or enjoyed as a light main, this salad offers a delightful mix of textures and tastes that everyone will love.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad
- 12 oz rotini pasta (or any short pasta)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/2 cup mini mozzarella balls (bocconcini), halved
- 1/2 cup sliced salami or pepperoni (optional)
- 1/3 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Dressing
- 1/2 cup Italian dressing (store-bought or homemade)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Cook the rotini pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta, then rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down. Set aside to drain fully.
- Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, add the cooled pasta along with the halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, red bell pepper, finely chopped red onion, sliced black olives, halved mini mozzarella balls, sliced salami or pepperoni if using, and shredded Parmesan cheese.
- Add dressing and toss: Pour the Italian dressing evenly over the combined salad ingredients. Toss gently but thoroughly to ensure everything is evenly coated with the dressing for maximum flavor.
- Season and garnish: Season the salad with salt and black pepper to your taste. Then stir in the chopped fresh parsley to add a fresh, herbaceous note.
- Chill and serve: Cover the salad and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Serve cold or at room temperature for the best taste experience.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, omit the salami or pepperoni.
- Feel free to use homemade Italian dressing for a fresher taste.
- To save time, cook pasta ahead and refrigerate until ready to use.
- Try adding other fresh veggies like artichoke hearts or roasted red peppers for variety.
- Use gluten-free pasta if you need to accommodate dietary restrictions.
