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–+ servings
Olive Garden Pasta Salad

Olive Garden Pasta Salad: A Family Favorite Made Easy

This Olive Garden Pasta Salad is an easy, delicious dish with vibrant flavors that everyone will love!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz whole wheat or gluten-free pasta The heart of the salad, providing substance.
For the Dressing
  • 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil Adds a rich flavor.
  • 1/2 cup Italian dressing Delivers tang and zest.
For the Veggies
  • 1 cup bell peppers Chopped, brings crunch.
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes Chopped, adds freshness.
For the Cheese
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan or Mozzarella cheese Contributes creaminess.
For the Topping
  • 1/4 cup olives Adds a briny kick.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Colander
  • mixing bowl
  • spatula
  • Plastic wrap

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente, about 8–10 minutes. Drain and cool under cold water.
  2. Prepare the Vegetables: Chop bell peppers and cherry tomatoes into bite-sized pieces. Place them in a large mixing bowl.
  3. Combine Ingredients: Add cooled pasta, extra virgin olive oil, and Italian dressing to the bowl with vegetables. Toss gently until coated.
  4. Add Cheese and Olives: Sprinkle in cheese and olives. Toss to evenly distribute.
  5. Chill the Salad: Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  6. Serve and Enjoy: Toss gently before serving in a large bowl or individual plates.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 8gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 40mgCalcium: 10mgIron: 8mg

Notes

Cool the pasta thoroughly to maintain the fresh crunch of the vegetables. Adjust dressing quantity to taste.

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