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Classic Italian Pasta Salad

A vibrant and refreshing pasta salad featuring rotini, crisp vegetables, and zesty Italian dressing, perfect for gatherings and warm days.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Appetizer, Main Dish, Salad
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Base Ingredients
  • 8 ounces rotini pasta Cooked until al dente
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup cucumber, chopped
  • 1/2 cup red onion, diced
  • 1/2 cup bell pepper, diced
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, cubed
  • 1/2 cup olives, sliced
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
  • 1/2 cup Italian dressing
  • to taste Salt and pepper For seasoning

Method
 

Cooking the Pasta
  1. In a large pot, bring water to a rolling boil. Add salt and introduce the rotini pasta. Cook according to package directions until al dente, typically around 8-10 minutes.
Preparing the Vegetables
  1. While the pasta is cooking, chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and bell pepper.
Combining Ingredients
  1. Once the pasta is cooked, drain and rinse it under cold water to prevent sticking. In a large bowl, combine the pasta with chopped vegetables, cubed mozzarella, and sliced olives.
Dressing the Salad
  1. Pour in the Italian dressing, tossing everything gently to ensure an even coating. Add salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.
Finishing Touches
  1. Finally, add the fresh basil, giving it one last toss to integrate the flavors.
Chilling and Serving
  1. Let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.

Notes

Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables, like zucchini or bell peppers. Timing matters; allowing the pasta salad to chill enhances the flavor.