Italian Pasta Salad Recipe

Name: Italian Pasta Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 2 cups rotini pasta; 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved); 1 cup mozzarella balls; 1/2 cup black olives (sliced); 1/2 cup bell peppers (diced); 1/4 cup red onion (finely chopped); 1/4 cup fresh basil (chopped); 1/3 cup olive oil; 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar; Salt and pepper to taste

Posted on March 3, 2025

salads

Here is an appetizing introduction to the recipe, ranging from 350-500 characters, written before any headings. This Italian Pasta Salad is a colorful medley of flavors that will brighten any table. With fresh vegetables, al dente pasta, and a tangy dressing, it’s perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a hearty side dish. Quick to prepare and easy to customize, this salad is not only nutritious but also a feast for the eyes. Let’s dive into the delightful world of Italian flavors!

Ingredients

Here is the list of ingredients.

2 cups rotini pasta
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup mozzarella balls
1/2 cup black olives, sliced
1/2 cup bell peppers, diced
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
1/3 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
Salt and pepper to taste

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe makes 4 servings. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and no cooking time is needed since the pasta can be boiled in advance.

Nutritional Value

This is for one person. Each serving contains approximately:
– Calories: 250
– Protein: 9g
– Carbohydrates: 30g
– Fat: 12g
– Fiber: 3g

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Here you need to write ONLY LIST (at least 10 items in the list) STEP-by-step detailed preparation “Italian Pasta Salad Recipe”, the size of this block is strictly from 1200 to 1500 characters.

Boil water in a large pot and add salt.
Cook rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
Drain pasta and rinse with cold water to stop cooking.
In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, olives, diced bell peppers, and red onion.
Add chopped basil to the bowl for freshness.
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper.
Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently to combine.
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Before serving, give the salad a good toss and adjust seasoning if needed.
Garnish with extra basil and serve chilled or at room temperature.

Alternative Ingredients

You can easily substitute ingredients in this recipe. Instead of mozzarella, try feta cheese for a tangier flavor. You can also use gluten-free pasta for a lighter option or add proteins like grilled chicken or chickpeas for added nutrition. Veggies like zucchini or artichokes can be swapped in based on your preference.

Serving and Pairings

This Italian Pasta Salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, seafood, or as a standalone dish at picnics. Serve it alongside garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. It also complements Italian dishes like lasagna or pizza perfectly.

Storage and Reheating

To store, keep the pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. It’s best served cold, so no reheating is necessary. This salad does not freeze well, as the texture of the vegetables can change upon thawing.

Cooking Mistakes

Overcooking the pasta can make it mushy.
Not rinsing the pasta can lead to clumping.
Forgetting to season the dressing can result in bland flavor.
Using stale ingredients can affect the freshness of the salad.
Skipping the chill time can reduce flavor development.
Not balancing the dressing can lead to an overly oily salad.
Neglecting to taste and adjust seasoning can make the salad less enjoyable.

Helpful Tips

Always cook pasta al dente for the best texture.
Use fresh herbs for enhanced flavor.
Let the salad sit to improve the taste.
Experiment with different dressings for variety.
Add nuts or seeds for an interesting crunch.

FAQs

Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this pasta salad a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator, and it will taste even better as the flavors meld.

What type of pasta works best?

Rotini or fusilli are great choices for pasta salad as they hold onto the dressing and ingredients well. However, you can use any pasta shape you prefer.

Can I add protein to this salad?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas are excellent additions that will enhance the nutritional content of your pasta salad.

How long does the salad last in the fridge?

The pasta salad can last up to three days in the refrigerator when stored properly in an airtight container.

Is this salad suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, this Italian Pasta Salad is entirely vegetarian, making it a great option for meatless meals.

Can I freeze this pasta salad?

It is not recommended to freeze pasta salad, as the texture of the ingredients may become mushy upon thawing.

What dressing works best for this salad?

A simple vinaigrette made with olive oil and red wine vinegar complements the ingredients perfectly, but feel free to experiment with other dressings to suit your taste.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this Italian Pasta Salad Recipe is a versatile and flavorful dish that can be enjoyed year-round. With its vibrant colors and delightful textures, it’s perfect for gatherings, picnics, or as a side dish. Easy to prepare and packed with fresh ingredients, this salad is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.