This Easy Italian Pasta Salad is a colorful mix of pasta and fresh veggies, bringing a burst of flavor in every bite! It’s quick to make and perfect for gatherings or a light lunch.
Who doesn’t love a dish that’s both pretty and tasty? 🍅 I usually whip this up in no time, and leftovers are great for snacking later. Toss in your favorite dressing, and you’re all set!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Rotini is a fun shape that holds the dressing well. You can swap it for penne, fusilli, or any pasta you like. Gluten-free pasta is also a great alternative!
Vegetables: Cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and bell peppers add bright colors. You can replace them with artichoke hearts, spinach, or even add some steamed broccoli if you like.
Olives: Black olives give a nice briny flavor. If you’re not a fan, green olives or capers work well too. Just chop them up and toss them in!
Cheese: Mozzarella adds creaminess. If you want a stronger flavor, try feta or even shredded Parmesan, which melts beautifully in the salad.
How Do You Get the Perfect Dressing for Pasta Salad?
Making a tasty dressing is key to this salad. You want it to complement but not overpower the veggies. Here’s how:
- Start with a base of olive oil for a rich flavor.
- Red wine vinegar adds a nice tang. If you like it milder, balsamic vinegar is a good substitute.
- Dijon mustard gives it a little punch. If you prefer a milder taste, feel free to skip it.
- Add garlic for depth. Mince it finely so it distributes evenly.
- Mix all ingredients in a jar or bowl and shake or whisk until well blended.
Taste and adjust with salt, pepper, or a hint of sweetness to balance the acidity. A little honey or sugar can go a long way!
Easy Italian Pasta Salad with Fresh Veggies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 8 oz (about 2 cups) rotini or any bite-sized pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup yellow bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, cubed or mini mozzarella balls
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley or basil, chopped
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of oregano, basil, and thyme)
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1 tsp honey or sugar for a touch of sweetness
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful pasta salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. Plus, you’ll want to chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to let all the wonderful flavors come together. In total, you’re looking at about 45 minutes, including prep and chill time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (usually about 8-10 minutes). Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to halt the cooking process and cool it down completely.
2. Mix the Veggies:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with the halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, diced red and yellow bell peppers, finely chopped red onion, sliced black olives, and mozzarella cheese. Give it a gentle stir to mix everything together.
3. Prepare the Dressing:
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, dried Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. If you like a bit of sweetness, add honey or sugar. Mix it well until everything is combined and emulsified.
4. Combine Everything:
Drizzle the dressing over the pasta and veggie mixture. Toss gently to ensure all the ingredients are coated evenly with the dressing.
5. Adding Fresh Herbs:
Fold in the chopped fresh parsley or basil for a burst of flavor and freshness. Mix gently to combine.
6. Chill and Serve:
Cover the salad and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time helps the flavors meld together beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, dish it out cold or at room temperature. Enjoy your delicious, colorful Italian Pasta Salad!
This dish is refreshing, colorful, and a breeze to prepare—perfect for any occasion!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Make This Pasta Salad Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! This pasta salad is perfect for making ahead. You can prepare it up to a day in advance; just make sure to cover it tightly in the fridge. The flavors will have time to meld beautifully, making it even more delicious!
What are Some Great Substitutions for the Vegetables?
Feel free to get creative! You can substitute the cherry tomatoes with diced Roma tomatoes or add in veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or even shredded carrots. For a little kick, you could toss in some sliced jalapeños!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the pasta from becoming mushy, try not to add the dressing until ready to serve, if possible.
Can I Use a Different Type of Cheese?
Yes, you can! While mozzarella is delicious in this salad, you could also use feta for a tangy twist, or Parmesan for a sharper flavor. Just remember to adjust the quantity to your taste!
