Description
This Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing is a crisp, vibrant dish bursting with fresh vegetables, tender pasta, and zesty Italian flavor. It’s the perfect side for picnics, potlucks, or quick weekday lunches!
Ingredients
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12 oz rotini or pasta of choice
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1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
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1 cup cucumber, diced
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1/2 cup red bell pepper, chopped
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1/2 cup black olives, sliced
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1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
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1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or cubed cheese
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1 cup Italian dressing (store-bought or homemade)
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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Optional: fresh parsley or basil, chopped
Instructions
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Cook Pasta: Boil pasta according to package directions. Drain and rinse under cold water.
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Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, toss cooked pasta with tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, olives, onion, and cheese.
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Add Dressing: Pour Italian dressing over the salad and mix until well coated.
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Season & Chill: Add salt, pepper, and herbs to taste. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
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Best served cold—great make-ahead dish!
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Add grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra protein.
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Use gluten-free pasta if needed.
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Homemade Italian dressing adds a fresher touch.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 290kal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 370mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 8g