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Easy Italian Pasta Salad

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Easy Italian Pasta Salad is a classic, colorful dish made with cooked pasta and a mix of fresh veggies, salty olives, tangy cheese, and Italian herbs all tossed in a zesty vinaigrette. It’s perfect for potlucks, picnics, or a quick weeknight meal.

Ingredients

  • 12 oz rotini or other short pasta
  • 1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup cucumber, diced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup black or kalamata olives, sliced
  • 3/4 cup cubed mozzarella or mozzarella pearls
  • 1/2 cup sliced pepperoni or salami (optional)
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil or parsley
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool.
  2. Prepare the vegetables: halve the tomatoes, dice the cucumber and bell pepper, and thinly slice the red onion.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, chopped vegetables, olives, mozzarella, optional meat, and herbs.
  4. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Italian seasoning, garlic, salt, and pepper.
  5. Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss until evenly coated.
  6. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving for best flavor.

Notes

  • Add chickpeas, artichokes, or roasted red peppers for extra texture and flavor.
  • Use gluten-free pasta if needed.
  • Best served cold or at room temperature.
  • Drizzle extra olive oil or vinegar before serving if salad dries out in the fridge.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/easy-italian-pasta-salad/