Vibrant Italian Pasta Salad with Homemade Dressing

Looking for a refreshing and colorful side dish? This Italian pasta salad is bursting with flavors and textures, making it the perfect addition to any meal or picnic. With a medley of fresh vegetables and a tangy homemade dressing, this salad is sure to brighten up your day.

This recipe is not just about the pasta; it’s a celebration of vibrant ingredients like cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, and olives. Each bite is a delightful mix of taste, offering a perfect balance of savory and zesty notes that will leave your taste buds dancing.

Vibrant Ingredients for a Summertime Delight

This Italian pasta salad bursts with color and flavor, making it a standout dish for any gathering.

The rotini pasta serves as a canvas, perfectly holding onto the delightful homemade dressing.

Mixed in are juicy cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and vibrant bell peppers, creating a visually stunning presentation.

Each vegetable adds its unique crunch and freshness, enhancing the overall experience of this dish.

Homemade Dressing for the Perfect Finish

An essential element of this pasta salad is the homemade Italian dressing.

With a blend of olive oil, red wine vinegar, and Italian seasoning, it brings a tangy and zesty flavor profile that complements the ingredients beautifully.

Whisking these elements together creates a glossy coating that clings to the pasta and vegetables, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor.

Preparation Made Simple

Preparing this salad is a breeze, making it an ideal choice for quick meals or picnics.

Simply cook the pasta until al dente, then rinse it under cool water to halt the cooking process.

While the pasta cools, chop the vegetables and prepare the dressing.

Combining everything in a large bowl allows the flavors to meld, creating a harmonious blend that’s best served chilled.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This pasta salad shines at summer barbecues, picnics, or as a delightful side dish on a family dinner table.

Its vibrant colors and fresh flavors make it a crowd-pleaser that appeals to both kids and adults alike.

Not only is it visually appealing, but it’s also nutritious, offering a balanced mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

While the classic version is delicious on its own, there are countless variations to consider.

Adding grilled chicken or shrimp can turn this salad into a hearty main dish, while a sprinkle of feta cheese brings a salty touch.

Feel free to experiment with different vegetables or herbs based on seasonal availability, keeping the spirit of this Italian classic alive.

Creating a Rustic Dining Experience

When serving this pasta salad, consider a rustic table setting to enhance the presentation.

A wooden table adorned with simple dishes and fresh herbs creates an inviting atmosphere, perfect for summer gatherings.

Pairing this salad with crusty bread and a light white wine can elevate the meal, making for a delightful dining experience that celebrates the flavors of Italy.

Delicious Pasta Salad with Italian Flair

This pasta salad combines al dente pasta with crisp vegetables and a zesty Italian dressing. The result is a light, refreshing dish that’s perfect for summer barbecues or as a make-ahead lunch.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces rotini or penne pasta
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup cucumber, diced
• 1 cup bell peppers, chopped (red, yellow, or green)
• 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup mozzarella balls or cubed mozzarella
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 1/3 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
2. Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell peppers, olives, red onion, and mozzarella. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat.
4. Chill and Serve: Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld. Garnish with fresh basil just before serving.

Cook and Prep Times

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

• Servings: 4-6 servings
• Calories: 320kcal
• Fat: 20g
• Protein: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 30g