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Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing

Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing
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This Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing is a refreshing, easy-to-make dish perfect for summer meals, potlucks, or quick weeknight dinners. Featuring tender rotini pasta, crisp fresh vegetables, and a bright, tangy Italian dressing, this salad offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures that can be customized to suit any taste or dietary preference.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 cups rotini pasta
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup cucumber, diced
  • 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/3 cup black olives, sliced
  • 1/2 cup Italian dressing

Optional Add-ons

  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons fresh basil or parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Boil the rotini pasta in salted water according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse briefly under cold water to stop the cooking and cool the pasta for the salad.
  2. Prepare the Vegetables: While the pasta cooks, halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber, thinly slice the red onion, and slice the black olives to prepare your fresh veggies.
  3. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the cooled pasta with the chopped vegetables and olives. Toss well to ensure an even distribution of all ingredients throughout the salad.
  4. Add Italian Dressing: Pour your favorite Italian dressing over the pasta and veggies, then toss thoroughly with tongs or a large spoon to coat everything evenly.
  5. Optional Cheese and Herbs: If using cheese, sprinkle shredded mozzarella or parmesan over the salad and gently fold it in. Finish with fresh basil or parsley for a fresh herbal boost.

Notes

  • Cook pasta al dente to prevent mushiness and keep the pasta firm in the salad.
  • Use a quality, fresh Italian dressing for the best flavor.
  • Chill the salad for at least an hour before serving to let flavors meld beautifully.
  • Toss gently to avoid breaking the pasta or bruising the vegetables.
  • Add dressing gradually to prevent the salad from becoming soggy.

Nutrition

Keywords: Pasta Salad, Italian Dressing, Summer Salad, Easy Recipe, Rotini Pasta Salad, Picnic Food, Potluck Dish

Find it online: https://dailydishez.com/pasta-salad-with-italian-dressing/