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+ servings
California Pasta Salad

California Pasta Salad: A Fresh, Flavor-Packed Delight

Enjoy a vibrant California Pasta Salad, packed with fresh veggies and zesty flavors, perfect for any summer occasion.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 8 oz Rotini Pasta Substitute with gluten-free pasta if desired.
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes Grape tomatoes can be a great substitute.
  • 1 medium Cucumber Zucchini can be swapped for a different texture.
  • 1/2 medium Red Onion Use green onions for a milder taste.
  • 1/2 cup Black Olives Feel free to omit for a lighter salad.
  • 1 medium Bell Pepper Shredded carrots can be an alternative.
  • 1 cup Sharp Cheddar Cheese Swap with feta or omit for a dairy-free option.
For the Dressing
  • 1/2 cup Italian Salad Dressing Balsamic vinaigrette can be used for a twist.
For Garnish
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley Basil can be used as an alternative.
  • Salt & Pepper Adjust to taste.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • colander
  • Mixing Bowl

Method
 

Cooking Steps
  1. Fill a large pot with water, adding a pinch of salt, and bring to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook for 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water.
  2. Wash and chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and bell pepper into bite-sized pieces. Place in a large mixing bowl.
  3. Add the cooled pasta to the bowl of chopped vegetables along with the black olives and sharp cheddar cheese. Gently toss until combined.
  4. Drizzle the Italian salad dressing over the mixture and toss again until all ingredients are coated.
  5. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
  6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 10gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Enjoy this summer salad as a versatile dish that can be customized to fit dietary preferences.

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