Italian Pasta Salad is a colorful and refreshing dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Italy to your table. This versatile salad is perfect for picnics, potlucks, or as a side dish for a barbecue. It’s loaded with fresh vegetables, hearty pasta, and a zesty dressing, making it a complete meal or a delightful side that complements any main course.
This article provides you with everything you need to create your own Italian Pasta Salad, complete with an overview of preparation difficulty, time commitments, and step-by-step instructions.
Quick Overview
| Difficulty | Prep Time | Cooking Time | Total Time | Servings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Easy | 15 minutes | 10 minutes | 25 minutes | 4-6 |
Ingredients
- 8 oz. rotini pasta (or any pasta of your choice)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1 bell pepper (red or yellow), chopped
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, cubed
- 1/2 cup pepperoni slices (optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Execution
-
Cook the Pasta:
Boil a large pot of salted water. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down. -
Prepare the Vegetables:
While the pasta is cooking, chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, and olives. Combine them in a large mixing bowl. -
Prepare the Cheese and Pepperoni:
If using mozzarella and pepperoni, cube the cheese and slice the pepperoni into smaller pieces. Set aside. -
Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined. -
Combine Your Ingredients:
Once the pasta has cooled, add it to the bowl with the chopped vegetables. Then, add the mozzarella, pepperoni (if using), and chopped basil. Drizzle the dressing over the top. -
Toss to Combine:
Gently toss everything together until the pasta and vegetables are evenly coated with dressing. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. - Chill and Serve:
Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Additional Tips
- Make Ahead: This salad can be made a day in advance. In fact, the flavors improve overnight!
- Add Protein: For a heartier meal, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
- Substitutions: Feel free to get creative with the ingredients. You can substitute different vegetables or use whole grain pasta for a healthier option.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Give it a good stir before serving again.
Italian Pasta Salad is a delightful dish that can easily adapt to different tastes and preferences. With its vibrant ingredients and zesty dressing, it’s sure to become a favorite at your gatherings. Enjoy this refreshing dish with family and friends, and watch as it brightens up any meal!
