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Classic Pasta Salad

Classic Pasta Salad That's Perfect for Summer Gatherings

This vibrant Classic Pasta Salad is a delightful blend of tri-color rotini and fresh vegetables, perfect for summer gatherings.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 12 oz Tri-color rotini pasta Substitute with any bite-sized pasta if needed.
For the Salad Mix
  • 1 cup Cherry tomatoes Halve before adding.
  • 4 oz Sliced pepperoni Can be replaced with salami or omitted for vegetarian.
  • 1 small Red onion Can be replaced with green onions for a milder taste.
  • 1 cup Green bell pepper Substitute with yellow or red for a sweeter flavor.
  • 8 oz Mozzarella cheese Use mozzarella pearls for easier mixing.
  • 1/2 cup Grated parmesan cheese Can omit for low-sodium options.
  • 1/2 cup Sliced olives Swap with capers or omit for a less salty dish.
For the Vinaigrette
  • 1/2 cup Olive oil Can replace with any neutral oil.
  • 1/4 cup Red wine vinegar Substitute with white wine vinegar for milder flavor.
  • 1 tbsp Italian seasoning Can substitute with dried oregano or basil.
  • 1 tsp Garlic powder Can substitute with fresh minced garlic.
  • to taste Salt Essential to enhance flavors.
  • to taste Pepper Essential to enhance flavors.
  • 1/2 tsp Red pepper flakes Add spice; can be omitted for a milder dish.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • colander
  • mixing bowl
  • whisk

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add the tri-color rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse under cold water.
  2. Place the cooled rotini pasta in a large mixing bowl. Add in halved cherry tomatoes, sliced pepperoni, red onion, bell pepper, mozzarella cheese, grated parmesan, and olives. Stir gently to distribute the ingredients.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes until well combined.
  4. Pour the vinaigrette over the pasta and vegetable mixture. Toss everything together gently to coat evenly.
  5. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to develop.
  6. When ready to serve, let the salad sit at room temperature for about 20-30 minutes. Toss again before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 10gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 14gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 450mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 700IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

For best flavor, serve this salad cold. You can also prepare it a day in advance for maximum flavor.

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