Description
A refreshing Italian Pasta Salad perfect for summer gatherings or as a side dish.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 ounces rotini pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, cubed
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, black olives, red onion, mozzarella cheese, and fresh basil.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature, and enjoy!
Notes
- For added protein, consider mixing in cooked chicken, chickpeas, or tuna.
- Experiment with different vegetables like spinach, artichokes, or sun-dried tomatoes for a unique twist.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 15mg