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Classic Pasta Salad

Classic Pasta Salad with Zesty Homemade Vinaigrette Delight

This Classic Pasta Salad is a vibrant, crowd-pleasing dish perfect for summer gatherings.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces Tri-Color Rotini Pasta Substitute with any small bite-sized pasta
For the Veggies
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes Diced bell peppers are a great substitute
  • 4 ounces Sliced Pepperoni Swap with salami or omit for a vegetarian twist
  • 1 medium Red Onion Green onions or shallots offer a milder flavor
  • 1 medium Green Bell Pepper Cucumbers can be used as an alternative
For the Cheeses
  • 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese Use cubed or mozzarella pearls
  • ½ cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Feel free to skip if you prefer less cheese
For the Dressing
  • cup Olive Oil Avocado oil is an excellent substitute
  • 3 tablespoons Red Wine Vinegar White wine vinegar works just as well
  • 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning Feel free to use fresh herbs
  • ½ teaspoon Garlic Powder Fresh minced garlic can be substituted
For Seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Adjust according to your taste preference
  • 1 teaspoon Pepper Adjust according to your taste preference
  • ¼ teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes Leave out for a milder option

Equipment

  • large pot
  • colander
  • mixing bowl
  • spatula
  • whisk

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by filling a large pot with water and bringing it to a rolling boil over high heat. Once boiling, generously salt the water and add the tri-color rotini pasta. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente. Drain the pasta in a colander and cool it off under cold running water.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled tri-color rotini with the vibrant cherry tomatoes, sliced pepperoni, diced red onion, and chopped green bell pepper. Toss in the creamy mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan. Gently stir until well integrated.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil and red wine vinegar. Add Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. This zesty vinaigrette will elevate your pasta salad.
  4. Pour the vinaigrette over the pasta salad mix and toss gently until all components are evenly coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least one hour.
  5. Prior to serving, remove the salad from the refrigerator and allow it to sit at room temperature for 20-30 minutes. Give it another gentle toss before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 10gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Pasta is best when cooked al dente. This salad can also be customized with seasonal veggies and proteins.

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