Description
Classic pasta salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that makes a perfect addition to any gathering, from picnics to potlucks. This recipe features tri-color rotini pasta combined with fresh vegetables, cheeses, and a zesty homemade vinaigrette, creating a colorful and visually appealing salad that is sure to please everyone. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it’s also highly customizable, allowing you to substitute ingredients based on your personal taste or seasonal produce. Whether served as a refreshing main course or a delightful side dish, classic pasta salad is a go-to recipe for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 24 ounces tri-color rotini pasta
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes
- 12 ounces sliced pepperoni
- 1 red onion
- 1 green bell pepper
- 16 ounces mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 8 ounces olives
- 1 1/2 cups olive oil
- 1/2 cup red wine vinegar
- 2 tablespoons Italian seasoning
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Cook tri-color rotini in salted boiling water according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water. Transfer to a large mixing bowl.
- Add halved cherry tomatoes, sliced pepperoni, diced red onion, diced green bell pepper, cubed mozzarella cheese, grated parmesan cheese, and sliced olives to the bowl. Toss gently.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes until well combined.
- Pour the vinaigrette over the salad mixture and toss to coat all ingredients evenly.
- Refrigerate for at least one hour before serving to allow flavors to meld.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 45mg