Classic Italian Pasta Salad
This Classic Italian Pasta Salad is a delightful combination of fresh vegetables, tender pasta, and a zesty homemade dressing. Perfect for any occasion!
Equipment
- 1 Large pot for boiling pasta
- 1 Mixing Bowl large
- 1 Colander for draining pasta
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 8 ounces rotini pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1 cup mozzarella balls halved
- 1/2 cup sliced black olives
- 1/4 cup red onion thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil chopped
Dressing Ingredients
- 1/4 cup Italian dressing
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Preparation
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
- While the pasta is cooking, halve the cherry tomatoes and mozzarella balls, slice the black olives and red onion, and chop the fresh basil.
Assembling the Salad
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, black olives, red onion, and basil.
- Drizzle the Italian dressing over the salad ingredients. Toss gently to ensure everything is evenly coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Final Touches
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour. Chilling allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- Once chilled, give the salad a final toss. Serve it in individual bowls or on a large platter.
Storage
- Store any leftover pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days.
Notes
Pro Tips: Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor. Allow the salad to chill for flavors to meld. Ingredient Substitutions: Swap rotini for any short pasta. How to Serve: Serve chilled as a side or main dish. Storage & Freshness: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare a day in advance for deeper flavors.