Description
Zesty Cold Pasta Salad is a refreshing and vibrant side dish featuring tender rotini pasta mixed with crisp vegetables, mozzarella pearls, and a tangy homemade Italian dressing. This salad is perfect for picnics, potlucks, BBQs, or as a simple, make-ahead meal.
Ingredients
Pasta and Vegetables
- 12 oz (340 g) rotini pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1 cup mozzarella pearls
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
Dressing
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Cook the rotini pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse it thoroughly under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down for the salad.
- Combine salad ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, diced bell pepper, thinly sliced red onion, sliced black olives, mozzarella pearls, and chopped parsley. Toss gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Italian seasoning, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper until the dressing is fully emulsified.
- Dress the salad: Pour the prepared dressing over the pasta and vegetable mixture. Toss the salad thoroughly to ensure every ingredient is coated well with the tangy dressing.
- Chill before serving: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve chilled for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- Add grilled chicken or salami for extra protein and a heartier meal.
- Best served chilled to maximize the refreshing flavors and crisp textures.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Italian
