Description
This refreshing cold pasta salad is a perfect side dish for any summer gathering or picnic. It’s quick to make and can be customized with your favorite vegetables and dressings.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 ounces of rotini pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1 cup mozzarella balls, halved
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, black olives, and mozzarella balls.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss to combine. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
- Garnish with fresh basil if desired and serve cold.
Notes
- Feel free to add other vegetables such as spinach, carrots, or zucchini.
- For a protein boost, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas.
- This salad can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
Nutrition
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 3
- Sodium: 150
- Fat: 15
- Carbohydrates: 34
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 6
- Cholesterol: 10
Keywords: easy cold pasta salad recipes, summer pasta salad, quick pasta salad, pasta salad recipe, cold pasta salad