Description
A vibrant and zesty pasta salad made with rotini, fresh vegetables, mozzarella, and tossed in a tangy Italian dressing. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, and meal prep.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz rotini pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- ¾ cup red bell pepper, chopped
- ½ cup red onion, thinly sliced
- ½ cup black olives, sliced
- 1 cup mozzarella pearls or cubed cheese
- ¾ cup Italian dressing (homemade or bottled)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
Instructions
- Cook pasta in salted water until al dente. Rinse under cold water and drain well.
- Chop all vegetables and halve the tomatoes.
- In a large bowl, combine pasta, vegetables, and mozzarella.
- Pour half the dressing over the salad and toss gently.
- Chill for at least 30 minutes.
- Toss with remaining dressing before serving and garnish with herbs.
Notes
- Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option.
- Add grilled chicken or pepperoni for extra protein.
- Make up to 24 hours in advance for best flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salads
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 390mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: Classic Pasta Salad, Italian Pasta Salad, Summer Salad, Potluck Recipe, Cold Pasta Salad