PrintClassic Italian Pasta Salad
A simple, make-ahead pasta salad perfect for picnics and potlucks. This Italian-inspired dish features a zesty vinaigrette and is easy to transport.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Cold Salad
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound rotini pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/2 cup green bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup Italian dressing
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and rinse with cold water.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, black olives, green bell pepper, and parsley.
- Add Parmesan cheese and Italian dressing. Toss gently to coat all ingredients.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Notes
- For a heartier salad, add grilled chicken or salami.
- Adjust vegetables based on your preference.
- Ensure the salad is well-chilled before transporting to keep it picnic-safe.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Find it online: https://www.purecookingjoy.com/pasta-salad-recipe/