Italian Pasta Salad
Italian Pasta Salad
There’s something so comforting about a big bowl of Italian Pasta Salad. It’s bright, colorful, and packed with flavors that dance on your palate.
Whether you’re heading to a family picnic, a potluck, or just a cozy dinner at home, this salad is always a hit.
The combination of tender pasta, juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and zesty Italian dressing is simply unbeatable.
Plus, it’s effortlessly easy to whip up, making it an ideal choice for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 300
- Protein: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fat: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 320mg
Why I Love This Italian Pasta Salad
This Italian Pasta Salad is one of my all-time favorites! It’s not just delicious, but it also brings back memories of warm summer days spent with family and friends.
I love how versatile it is; you can serve it as a main dish or a side, and it pairs beautifully with grilled meats or as a standalone lunch.
The burst of flavors from the fresh vegetables and the tangy Italian dressing makes every bite a delightful experience. Plus, it comes together so quickly, which is a big win in my book, especially on busy days.
Ingredients
12 oz pasta (fusilli or rotini),
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved,
1 cup mozzarella balls, halved,
1/2 cup black olives, sliced,
1/2 cup bell peppers, diced,
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped,
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped,
1/2 cup Italian dressing, Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Italian Pasta Salad
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Once done, drain it in a colander and let it cool completely.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
While the pasta cools, wash and chop the cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, and red onion. Slice the olives and tear the basil leaves if needed.
Step 3: Combine the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, sliced olives, diced bell peppers, chopped red onion, and fresh basil.
Step 4: Dress the Salad
Pour the Italian dressing over the pasta mixture. Toss everything together gently until all ingredients are well coated.
Step 5: Season and Chill
Add salt and pepper to taste, mixing once more. Cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to let those flavors meld together.
Tips & Variations
- Chill your pasta salad longer for even better flavor; a few hours or overnight works wonders!
- For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta; it’ll taste just as great!
- Consider adding grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra protein.
- Present your salad in a large, colorful bowl for a vibrant display. Garnish with extra basil before serving for that fresh touch!
Delicious Variations
- Mediterranean Pasta Salad: Swap out Italian dressing for a homemade lemon-oregano vinaigrette and add artichoke hearts and feta cheese.
- Caprese Pasta Salad: Incorporate pesto instead of dressing and include slices of fresh mozzarella and basil for a twist on the classic Caprese.
- Greek Pasta Salad: Mix in cucumbers, bell peppers, feta cheese, and Kalamata olives for a refreshing Greek-inspired dish.
- Avocado Pasta Salad: Add diced avocado for a creamy texture and a nutritional boost, perfect for a modern take on this classic.
Serving Suggestions for Italian Pasta Salad
Serve this delicious Italian Pasta Salad chilled on a hot summer day for the best experience. It’s great for lunch, dinner, or as a vibrant side at a backyard barbecue.
Pair it with a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio for an Italian feast or enjoy it alongside some garlic bread for a cozy evening!
This salad also complements grilled chicken or fish beautifully, making for a well-rounded meal.
Storage and Leftovers
Store any leftover pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
Just give it a little stir to refresh it before serving again. Unfortunately, freezing isn’t recommended, as the texture of the pasta and vegetables can change upon thawing.
Helpful Questions
Can I use any type of pasta for this salad?
Yes! Fusilli, rotini, or any short pasta work well. Just be mindful of cooking times.How can I make this salad vegetarian?
It’s already vegetarian, but feel free to load it up with even more veggies like zucchini or carrots!Is there a substitute for Italian dressing?
Absolutely! You can use a homemade vinaigrette with olive oil, vinegar, herbs, and spices instead.Can I add protein to this salad?
Yes! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas are excellent additions for a heartier salad.What other veggies can I include?
You can add cucumbers, radishes, or even spinach for a fresh twist to your Italian Pasta Salad.
Italian Pasta Salad
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A bright and colorful Italian Pasta Salad, packed with flavors and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (fusilli or rotini)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup mozzarella balls, halved
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/2 cup bell peppers, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/2 cup Italian dressing
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and let it cool completely.
- While the pasta cools, wash and chop the cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, and red onion. Slice the olives and tear the basil leaves.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, olives, bell peppers, red onion, and basil.
- Pour the Italian dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently until well coated.
- Add salt and pepper to taste, mixing once more. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Notes
Chill longer for even better flavor; consider adding grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra protein.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
There are no reviews yet. Be the first one to write one.