Description
Easy Pasta Salad is a refreshing and versatile dish with pasta, fresh veggies, and a tangy dressing. Perfect for any occasion or meal!
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 ounces of pasta (rotini or penne)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, cubed
- 1/2 cup Italian dressing
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (basil or parsley) for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package instructions, drain, and rinse under cold water.
- Prepare the veggies: chop cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, onion, and slice black olives.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, veggies, mozzarella cheese, and olives.
- Pour Italian dressing over and toss to coat evenly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
- For a tangier taste, substitute Italian dressing with balsamic vinaigrette.
- Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option.
- For a creamier version, try using a yogurt-based dressing.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: easy pasta salad, pasta salad recipe, vegetable pasta salad, mozzarella pasta salad, Italian pasta salad, refreshing pasta salad