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Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing

Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing
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This Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing is a refreshing, versatile dish featuring perfectly cooked pasta tossed in tangy, zesty Italian dressing with crisp fresh vegetables and optional add-ins. Ideal for picnics, potlucks, or quick meals, it’s easy to prepare, customizable, and tastes great chilled, making it perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 8 oz rotini, penne, or farfalle pasta

Italian Dressing

  • 1/2 cup Italian dressing (store-bought or homemade)

Fresh Vegetables

  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup cucumbers, diced
  • 1 cup bell peppers, diced
  • 1/4 cup red onions, thinly sliced

Herbs

  • 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tbsp fresh oregano, chopped

Cheese (Optional)

  • 1/2 cup feta, mozzarella, or parmesan cheese, crumbled or shredded

Optional Add-Ins & Variations

  • 1 cup grilled chicken, salami, or chickpeas (for protein boost)
  • 1/2 cup olives, roasted red peppers, or artichoke hearts (vegetarian options)
  • Red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños, to taste (for spicy kick)
  • Gluten-free rice or quinoa pasta as a pasta alternative
  • Alternative herbs such as dill, chives, or mint

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add your chosen pasta and cook until just tender (al dente). Drain thoroughly and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking and cool the pasta for the salad.
  2. Prepare the Fresh Vegetables: While the pasta cooks, wash and chop your cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, and red onions into bite-sized pieces to ensure crunch and freshness in every bite.
  3. Combine with Italian Dressing: In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooled pasta and chopped vegetables with the Italian dressing, making sure everything is evenly coated so the flavors meld beautifully.
  4. Add Cheese and Herbs: Gently fold in your chosen cheese and freshly chopped herbs to add creamy texture and aromatic flavor to the salad without overpowering the dressing.
  5. Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the pasta salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the dressing to soak into each ingredient for the best flavor.

Notes

  • Cook pasta al dente to avoid mushiness and maintain a pleasant texture.
  • Use fresh, crisp vegetables and herbs to maximize brightness and flavor.
  • Dress the salad just before serving if making ahead, to avoid sogginess.
  • Enhance store-bought Italian dressing with added garlic, lemon juice, or fresh herbs for a homemade touch.
  • Allow the salad to chill fully so flavors have time to meld for a tastier dish.

Nutrition

Keywords: pasta salad, Italian dressing, rotini salad, summer salad, make-ahead salad, picnic recipe, easy pasta salad, gluten-free pasta salad

Find it online: https://eazyummy.com/pasta-salad-with-italian-dressing/