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–+ servings
Italian Pasta Salad

Refreshing Italian Pasta Salad for Your Summer BBQ Fun

This Italian Pasta Salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish perfect for summer gatherings.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz Tri-color Rotini Pasta Feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer.
For the Vegetables
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes Substitute with grape tomatoes for similar flavor.
  • 1 cup Green Bell Pepper Swap in red or yellow peppers for extra sweetness.
  • 1/2 cup Red Onion Use green onions for a milder alternative.
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley Basil works wonderfully for an Italian twist.
For the Cheese
  • 8 oz Mozzarella Cheese Can be cubed or in pearls.
For the Dressing
  • 1/4 cup Italian Dressing Make your own with olive oil and vinegar for a homemade touch.
  • 1 tsp Italian Seasoning Adjust according to your taste preferences.
For Seasoning
  • 1 tsp Salt Adjust to your liking.
  • 1/2 tsp Black Pepper Adjust to your liking.
For Extra Flavor
  • 1/2 cup Black Olives Kalamata olives can be a flavorful substitute.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Spatula
  • sharp knife

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add tri-color rotini and cook for 8–10 minutes until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. Prepare the Vegetables: In a mixing bowl, combine halved cherry tomatoes, diced green bell pepper, chopped red onion, and fresh parsley.
  3. Add the Cheese and Olives: Incorporate cubed mozzarella cheese and black olives into the bowl with vegetables.
  4. Mix in the Pasta: Add cooled pasta to the bowl and fold the mixture to combine.
  5. Dress the Salad: Drizzle dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently to combine.
  6. Season and Chill: Sprinkle with Italian seasoning, and season with salt and pepper. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
  7. Serve and Enjoy: Stir gently, serve chilled as a side or light main course.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 8gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Allow flavors to meld in the refrigerator for a delicious taste. Adjust salt and pepper to enhance freshness.

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