Description
This Pasta Salad with Homemade Dressing combines tender rotini pasta, fresh veggies, and a tangy homemade dressing for a refreshing and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
12 oz rotini pasta
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup cucumber, diced
½ red onion, finely chopped
1 cup cheddar cheese, cubed
½ cup black olives, sliced
½ cup green bell pepper, chopped
For the Homemade Dressing:
½ cup olive oil
¼ cup red wine vinegar
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions in salted water until al dente, about 10-12 minutes.
- Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water. Let it cool for about 5 minutes.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, cheddar cheese, olives, and green bell pepper. Toss gently to mix.
- In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss well to coat everything evenly.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Notes
- You can add protein like grilled chicken, shrimp, or even bacon for a more filling meal.
- Feel free to mix in other vegetables like carrots, spinach, or bell peppers.
- For a vegan option, omit the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
- Fresh herbs like parsley or basil can add extra brightness to the salad.
- If you prefer a different cheese, you can substitute cheddar with mozzarella, feta, or any cheese of your choice.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
