Name: Italian Pasta Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-486955H48M55S
Total time: PT-486955H48M55S
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb pasta (rotini, penne, or bowtie work well); 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced; 1/2 cup cucumber, diced; 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup black olives, sliced; 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, cubed or shredded; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 cup Italian dressing (store-bought or homemade); 1 tablespoon olive oil (if using homemade dressing); 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar (if using homemade dressing); 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil (optional, for garnish)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Italian Pasta Salad is a versatile, make-ahead dish that’s both refreshing and satisfying. The hearty pasta, combined with the freshness of vegetables, creamy cheese, and a tangy dressing, makes this salad a well-rounded meal or side dish. It’s perfect for hot summer days, picnics, or parties, and it holds up well for leftovers, making it ideal for meal prep. The best part is that you can easily customize it by adding your favorite veggies or proteins, making it a flexible option for all tastes.

Ingredients

1 lb pasta (rotini, penne, or bowtie work well)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
1/2 cup cucumber, diced
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup black olives, sliced
1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, cubed or shredded
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup Italian dressing (store-bought or homemade)
1 tablespoon olive oil (if using homemade dressing)
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar (if using homemade dressing)
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil (optional, for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Cook the pasta: Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, making sure to cook it al dente. Once done, drain and rinse the pasta under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down quickly. Set aside.
Prepare the vegetables: While the pasta is cooking, prepare the vegetables. Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the bell pepper and cucumber, slice the red onion, and cut the olives. Set the veggies aside.
Mix the pasta and veggies: In a large bowl, combine the cooked and cooled pasta with the prepared vegetables. Add the mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and olives.
Make the dressing: If using store-bought Italian dressing, simply pour it over the pasta mixture. If making your own, whisk together the Italian dressing, olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper in a separate bowl.
Combine everything: Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetables. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the dressing.
Chill the salad: Cover the pasta salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or longer if possible. This allows the flavors to meld and the salad to chill.
Serve: Just before serving, give the pasta salad a quick toss and garnish with fresh basil if desired.
Enjoy: Serve your refreshing and flavorful Italian Pasta Salad as a side dish or a light meal, perfect for any gathering!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6-8
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes (or longer)
Total Time: 45 minutes to 1 hour

Variations

Add protein: For a heartier meal, add grilled chicken, salami, or pepperoni slices, or even some chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
Swap the cheese: Use feta cheese, provolone, or even goat cheese in place of mozzarella for a different flavor.
Extra veggies: Add more vegetables like artichoke hearts, roasted red peppers, or olives to enhance the flavor and texture.
Spicy version: Add some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the dressing for a bit of heat.
Gluten-free version: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad may get even better as it sits, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Reheating: This dish is best served cold, so there’s no need to reheat. However, if you prefer, you can let it sit out at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?

Yes, this pasta salad is great for making ahead. In fact, it’s best when it has time to chill and the flavors have time to develop. You can prepare it up to 24 hours in advance.

2. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite type of pasta. Bowtie, fusilli, rotini, or penne are all great choices. Just make sure to cook the pasta al dente for the best texture.

3. Can I make this pasta salad dairy-free?

Yes, you can make it dairy-free by omitting the cheese or using a dairy-free cheese substitute. You can also try adding avocado for a creamy texture.

4. Can I use a different dressing?

Yes! If you prefer, you can use balsamic vinaigrette, Greek dressing, or any other vinaigrette-style dressing to give the salad a different flavor profile.

5. Can I add nuts to this salad?

Yes, toasted pine nuts or walnuts would add a nice crunch to the salad. Simply toast them lightly in a pan before adding them to the salad.

6. How do I prevent the pasta from getting soggy?

To prevent the pasta from absorbing too much dressing, be sure to rinse the pasta well after cooking to cool it down quickly. You can also add extra dressing right before serving if the pasta has absorbed too much.

.Conclusion

Italian Pasta Salad is a versatile, vibrant, and delicious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether served as a side dish at a barbecue or as a light meal on its own, this salad is full of fresh flavors and textures. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, it’s the perfect addition to your summer meals, potlucks, and picnics. Customize it with your favorite ingredients to make it your own, and you’ll have a crowd-pleasing dish every time!