Italian Dressing Pasta Salad

This Italian Dressing Pasta Salad is the ultimate combination of fresh vegetables, tender pasta, and a tangy Italian dressing. It’s a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for picnics, BBQs, potlucks, or as a refreshing side dish for any meal. The best part? It comes together in just a few minutes and can be made ahead of time, making it ideal for busy weeknights or when you’re entertaining guests. Packed with fresh ingredients and bursting with flavor, this pasta salad is sure to be a hit!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy – You can prepare this pasta salad in under 30 minutes, making it a perfect option when you’re short on time.
• Full of Flavor – The tangy Italian dressing, combined with the fresh veggies and pasta, creates a deliciously satisfying dish.
• Customizable – You can swap out veggies, add cheese, or even toss in some protein to make this pasta salad your own.
• Make-Ahead – This salad is even better after it sits for a few hours, making it perfect for preparing ahead of time.
• Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner, a potluck, or a BBQ, this pasta salad fits every occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Pasta Salad:

• 12 oz (about 3 cups) pasta (rotini, penne, bowtie, or your favorite type)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1 bell pepper (red, yellow, or orange), diced
• ½ red onion, thinly sliced
• ½ cup black olives, sliced (optional)
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For the Dressing:

• ¾ cup Italian dressing (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional for extra tang)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Tools You’ll Need

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Stirring spoon

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (about 8-10 minutes).
2. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

1. While the pasta is cooking, prepare the vegetables. Slice the cherry tomatoes in half, dice the cucumber and bell pepper, and thinly slice the red onion.
2. If you’re using olives, slice them into rounds.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the Italian dressing, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard (if using), garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, vegetables, and olives (if using).
2. Pour the dressing over the pasta and toss everything together until well coated.
3. If you’re adding cheese, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella over the salad and gently toss again.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

1. Refrigerate the pasta salad for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together. The salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days.
2. Before serving, give the salad a quick toss and garnish with fresh parsley.

Tips for Perfect Italian Dressing Pasta Salad

• Don’t Overcook the Pasta – Be sure to cook the pasta al dente (firm to the bite) so it holds up well in the salad and doesn’t get soggy.
• Customize the Veggies – Feel free to swap out the vegetables based on what you have on hand. Try adding zucchini, carrots, or even artichoke hearts for extra flavor.
• Add Protein – If you want to turn this into a complete meal, add some grilled chicken, tuna, or chickpeas for protein.
• Make Your Own Dressing – If you prefer homemade dressings, make your own Italian dressing by combining olive oil, vinegar, garlic, dried herbs, and a pinch of sugar.
• Let It Chill – Allow the salad to chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving so the pasta can soak up the flavors of the dressing.

Serving Suggestions

• As a Side Dish – Serve this pasta salad as a refreshing side to grilled meats, burgers, or BBQ.
• As a Light Meal – Add protein like grilled chicken or tuna to make this pasta salad a satisfying meal.
• Serve with Bread – Pair with a warm baguette or garlic bread for an even more satisfying meal.
• Perfect for Potlucks – This salad is great for potlucks, BBQs, or any social gathering due to its easy prep and ability to feed a crowd.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:

• This pasta salad keeps well in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. Store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
• If the dressing has absorbed into the pasta, you can add a little more Italian dressing before serving.

Reheating:

• Pasta salads like this one are best served cold, so there’s no need to reheat. Just give it a good toss before serving!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta?
   • Yes, you can use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for this recipe. Just cook the pasta according to the package instructions.
2. Can I add cheese?
   • Yes! You can add shredded mozzarella, feta, or parmesan cheese to the salad for extra flavor and creaminess.
3. Can I make the dressing from scratch?
   • Absolutely! To make your own Italian dressing, simply combine ½ cup olive oil, 2 tbsp vinegar, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp dried oregano, and salt and pepper to taste. You can also add a bit of Dijon mustard or honey for extra flavor.
4. How can I make this salad spicier?
   • If you like a bit of heat, add sliced jalapeños, crushed red pepper flakes, or a drizzle of hot sauce to the dressing.
5. Can I add other vegetables to the salad?
   • Yes, feel free to add other vegetables such as olives, artichokes, shredded carrots, or even roasted red peppers for a different twist.

Final Thoughts

This Italian Dressing Pasta Salad is the perfect dish for any occasion – whether it’s a summer BBQ, a picnic, or a quick lunch. With fresh vegetables, a tangy dressing, and tender pasta, it’s a delicious and easy way to enjoy a light and refreshing meal. Plus, it’s versatile and can be customized to fit your taste!

Give it a try and let me know how it turns out! Don’t forget to share your photos and thoughts in the comments below or on Pinterest. I can’t wait to hear how you make this pasta salad your own!

Preparation Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 10 minutes

Cuisine: Italian

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

Calories: 220 | Protein: 5g | Carbohydrates: 25g | Fat: 12g | Fiber: 3g | Sodium: 500mg

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