Hey y’all! Today I’m sharing a delicious and colorful Italian Pasta Salad that’s perfect for any gathering or just a cozy dinner at home. This recipe is packed with flavors, and it’s super easy to whip up. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or looking to add something fresh to your weekly meal prep, this dish is sure to hit the spot. Let’s dive into this summer delight!
Italian Pasta Salad
Check out this vibrant bowl of goodness! It’s not just a feast for the eyes; it’s a powerhouse of flavors that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces of rotini pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced (any color you prefer)
- 1 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup mozzarella balls, halved
- 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/2 cup Italian dressing (store-bought or homemade)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Start by cooking the rotini pasta according to the package instructions. I like it al dente, so it has a little bite to it. Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Let it cool completely.
- While the pasta is cooling, prepare your veggies! Chop up the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, and add them to a large mixing bowl.
- Once your pasta is cool, toss it in with the veggies. Add the sliced black olives and mozzarella balls for a creamy touch.
- Now, drizzle that delicious Italian dressing over everything. You can adjust the amount based on how zesty you want your salad to be!
- Mix everything gently, so all those flavors blend together beautifully. Don’t forget to sprinkle in the fresh basil, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Let the salad chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows all those flavors to really meld together. When you’re ready to serve, give it one last gentle toss, and enjoy this vibrant Italian Pasta Salad!
There you have it—a delightful dish that’s not only healthy but also brings a burst of color to your table. Perfect for any occasion, this Italian Pasta Salad will be a hit with your friends and family. Enjoy, and happy cooking!