Rotini Pasta Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pasta salad is simple, versatile, and full of texture and flavor. Rotini holds the dressing beautifully, while the mix of vegetables keeps it refreshing and satisfying. It’s easy to customize with different add-ins and tastes even better after chilling.

Ingredients

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

• Rotini pasta
• Cherry tomatoes
• Cucumber
• Bell pepper
• Red onion
• Black olives
• Mozzarella cheese
• Fresh parsley
• Italian dressing

Directions

1. Cook the rotini pasta in salted water until al dente.
2. Drain and rinse the pasta under cold water to stop the cooking process.
3. Chop the vegetables into bite-sized pieces.
4. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, vegetables, olives, and mozzarella.
5. Pour the Italian dressing over the salad.
6. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
7. Chill the pasta salad for at least 30 minutes before serving for best flavor.
8. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves about 6 to 8 people.
Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, with a cooking time of about 10 minutes.

Variations

You can add grilled chicken, salami, or pepperoni for extra protein. Swap mozzarella for feta or provolone for a different flavor. Adding pepperoncini, artichoke hearts, or spinach brings even more variety.

Storage/Reheating

Store rotini pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Stir before serving, and add a splash of extra dressing if it seems dry. This dish is best served cold and does not require reheating.

FAQs

Can I make pasta salad ahead of time?

Yes, it’s perfect for making a day in advance.

Should I rinse the pasta?

Yes, rinsing cools the pasta and prevents sticking.

What dressing works best?

Italian dressing is classic, but vinaigrettes work well too.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free rotini pasta.

How do I keep pasta salad from drying out?

Add a little extra dressing before serving.

Can I use different vegetables?

Yes, feel free to use whatever vegetables you prefer.

Is this pasta salad vegetarian?

Yes, as written it is vegetarian.

Can I use bottled dressing?

Yes, bottled dressing works perfectly for convenience.

What cheese works best?

Mozzarella pearls or cubes are ideal, but others can be used.

How long should it chill?

At least 30 minutes, though longer chilling improves flavor.

Conclusion

Rotini pasta salad is a dependable, flavorful dish that’s easy to prepare and always well received. With its bright vegetables, tender pasta, and zesty dressing, it’s a versatile recipe that fits effortlessly into any gathering or meal plan.

Rotini Pasta Salad

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Fresh and colorful rotini pasta salad with crisp vegetables, mozzarella, olives, and a flavorful Italian dressing, perfect for picnics, potlucks, and make-ahead meals.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 6–8 servings
• Category: Salad/Side Dish
• Method: Boiling/Tossing
• Cuisine: American/Italian
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 3 cups rotini pasta
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup cucumber, diced
• 1 cup bell pepper, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, cubed or pearls
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/2 cup Italian dressing

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Instructions

1. Cook the rotini pasta in salted water until al dente.
2. Drain and rinse the pasta under cold water to stop cooking and cool it.
3. Chop the vegetables into bite-sized pieces.
4. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, vegetables, olives, and mozzarella.
5. Pour Italian dressing over the salad.
6. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
7. Chill the pasta salad for at least 30 minutes before serving for best flavor.
8. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving, if desired.

Notes

• Add grilled chicken, salami, or pepperoni for extra protein.
• Swap mozzarella for feta or provolone for different flavors.
• Include extras like pepperoncini, artichoke hearts, or spinach for variety.
• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Stir before serving and add a splash of dressing if it seems dry.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 210 kcal
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 380 mg
• Fat: 9 g
• Saturated Fat: 4 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 28 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 7 g
• Cholesterol: 10 mg