Description
This Crave-Worthy Italian Pasta Salad is a delightful medley of fresh vegetables, savory meats, and flavorful cheese, all tossed together in a zesty Italian dressing. Perfect as a side dish or a light meal, it’s bursting with color and taste, making it an ideal choice for summer gatherings and picnics.
Ingredients
1 16 oz box rotini pasta
1 cup chopped cucumber
1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
½ cup sliced black olives
1 cup shredded mozzarella or cubed cheddar cheese
½ cup diced pepperoni optional
¾ cup Italian dressing store-bought or homemade
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and rinse under cold water.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta with chopped cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced black olives, shredded mozzarella or cubed cheddar cheese, and diced pepperoni if using.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the Italian dressing, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss until everything is well coated.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Notes
Feel free to customize this salad by adding your favorite ingredients such as grilled chicken, bell peppers, or other cheese varieties. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 480 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 10 g
- Cholesterol: 25 mg
Keywords: Italian Pasta Salad, Pasta Salad Recipe, Summer Salad, Side Dish, Easy Pasta Salad