– **Title**: Italian Pasta Salad
– **Ingredients**:
– 8 oz fusilli or penne pasta
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup cucumber, diced
– 1/2 cup bell pepper, diced (red or yellow)
– 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
– 1/2 cup mozzarella balls, halved
– 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 1/2 cup Italian dressing (store-bought or homemade)
– 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
– **Instructions**:
1. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, black olives, mozzarella balls, and red onion.
3. Pour the Italian dressing over the salad and sprinkle with dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Toss gently to combine all ingredients.
4. Adjust seasoning if necessary and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Before serving, garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Enjoy chilled or at room temperature.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: This spiral shape holds onto the dressing well. If you don’t have rotini, penne or farfalle are great alternatives that will work just fine!
Cherry Tomatoes: They add sweetness and color. Grape tomatoes can be substituted if that’s what you have. If tomatoes aren’t your thing, diced bell peppers are a crunchy alternative!
Cucumber: A refreshing crunch in the salad. You can swap it for bell peppers or even zucchini for a different taste. Just remember to deseed them if they’re watery.
Red Onion: Adds a sharp flavor but can be strong for some. Consider using green onions or shallots for a milder taste. Soaking red onion in cold water for a few minutes can also soften their flavor.
Mozzarella Balls: These are classic in pasta salads. If you’re looking for dairy-free options, try vegan cheese or omit it altogether for a lighter salad.
Salami: Use diced ham or turkey for a lighter protein option. You can skip the meat for a vegetarian version or add chickpeas for protein!
Olives: Black olives add rich flavor, but green or kalamata olives can be good substitutes too. If olives aren’t a favorite, try capers for a salty bite!
Fresh Basil: Adds aromatic freshness. If you don’t have fresh, dried basil can work in a pinch—just use less since dried herbs are more potent.
Italian Dressing: You can easily whip up your own with olive oil, vinegar, and herbs if you prefer homemade. Just balance the flavors to your liking!
How Should I Properly Cook and Cool Pasta for Salad?
Cooking pasta correctly is key to a great salad. Follow these steps to ensure it’s just right:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. This helps season the pasta.
- Add the rotini and cook according to package instructions until al dente. This means it should be firm to the bite.
- Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water. This stops the cooking process and helps cool it down quickly, preventing it from becoming mushy.
- Once cooled, let the pasta drain well so it doesn’t water down your salad.
It’s a great idea to toss a little olive oil with the pasta after rinsing to prevent sticking and enhance flavor!
How to Make Italian Pasta Salad?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Salad:
- 12 oz rotini pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
- 1/2 cup salami, diced
- 1/4 cup pitted black olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
For The Dressing:
- 1/2 cup Italian dressing (store-bought or homemade)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Italian Pasta Salad takes about 20 minutes to prepare and an additional 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. So, in about 50 minutes, you’ll have a refreshing salad ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling water in a large pot. Once it’s bubbling, add the rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (firm to the bite). When done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down. Set the cooled pasta aside.
2. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with the halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, sliced red onion, mozzarella balls, diced salami, sliced black olives, and torn fresh basil. Give everything a gentle mix to combine.
3. Add the Dressing:
Now it’s time to add flavor! Pour the Italian dressing over the pasta salad mixture. Use a spatula or spoon to toss everything together gently, making sure all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
4. Season and Chill:
Take a taste and season with salt and pepper according to your preference. Then, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 30 minutes to allow all the flavors to blend together.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once it’s chilled, if you like, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese over the top before serving. Serve the pasta salad cold and enjoy this refreshing dish with family and friends!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While rotini is a great choice for pasta salad, you can use any short pasta like penne, fusilli, or farfalle. Just remember to adjust the cooking time according to the type of pasta you choose, ensuring it’s cooked al dente for the best texture!
Can I Add or Substitute Ingredients?
Yes! This pasta salad is very adaptable. You can add ingredients like bell peppers, artichoke hearts, or even some pepperoncini for a spicy kick. If you prefer a vegetarian option, omit the salami and add extra veggies or beans like chickpeas for protein.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, so it’s even more delicious the next day! Just give it a good stir before serving, and you may want to add a splash more dressing if it seems dry.
Can I Make This Pasta Salad Ahead of Time?
Definitely! This pasta salad is perfect for making ahead. Prepare it up to 24 hours in advance. Just make sure to keep it covered in the fridge, and consider adding the fresh basil just before serving to keep it vibrant and fresh!
