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Italian Dressing Pasta Salad

Italian Dressing Pasta Salad: A Deliciously Easy Summer Recipe

This vibrant Italian Dressing Pasta Salad is a perfect make-ahead dish for potlucks or a light summer meal. It's quick to prepare and bursting with fresh flavors.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 27 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: American, Italian
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta Salad Ingredients
  • 1 pound Rotini Pasta
  • 1 cup Italian Dressing (plus more for serving, if desired)
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes halved
  • 1 cup Cucumber diced
  • 1/2 cup Red Onion thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup Black Olives sliced
  • 1/2 cup Mozzarella Cheese shredded (optional)
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Basil chopped (optional)

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • Large Mixing Bowl

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
  2. While the pasta is cooking, prepare the vegetables: halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber, and thinly slice the red onion.
  3. Once the pasta is completely cool, add it to a large mixing bowl.
  4. Add the Italian dressing, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, black olives, mozzarella cheese (if using), and fresh basil (if using) to the bowl.
  5. Gently toss all ingredients until well combined.
  6. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This is key for maximum deliciousness!
  7. Before serving, taste and add more Italian dressing if desired.
  8. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Notes

For a heartier salad, add grilled chicken or chickpeas. You can also substitute other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. Feel free to experiment with different types of pasta as well!