Description
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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Ingredients
For the Pasta Salad:
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12 oz (about 3 cups) pasta (rotini, penne, bowtie, or your favorite type)
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1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
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1 cucumber, diced
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1 bell pepper (red, yellow, or orange), diced
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½ red onion, thinly sliced
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½ cup black olives, sliced (optional)
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½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
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¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Dressing:
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¾ cup Italian dressing (store-bought or homemade)
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1 tbsp red wine vinegar
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1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional for extra tang)
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1 tsp garlic powder
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Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
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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).
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Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
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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.
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If you’re using olives, slice them into rounds.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
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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
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, vegetables, and olives (if using).
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Pour the dressing over the pasta and toss everything together until well coated.
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If you’re adding cheese, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella over the salad and gently toss again.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
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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.
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Before serving, give the salad a quick toss and garnish with fresh parsley.
Notes
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.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Cuisine: Italian