Easy Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing is a vibrant, crowd-pleasing dish perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or quick weekday meals. Bursting with fresh vegetables, tangy Italian dressing, and tender pasta, it’s a refreshing, no-fuss salad that can be made ahead and served chilled or at room temperature.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

rotini or fusilli pastacherry tomatoescucumberred onionbell pepperblack olivesmozzarella balls or cubesItalian dressing (store-bought or homemade)parmesan cheese (optional)salt and pepper to taste

directions

Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.

Chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and bell pepper into bite-sized pieces.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chopped vegetables, olives, and mozzarella.

Pour the Italian dressing over the mixture and toss well to coat all ingredients evenly.

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Sprinkle with parmesan cheese if desired.

Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 8 servings.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Chilling time: 30 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes

Variations

Use tortellini instead of regular pasta for a richer salad.

Add grilled chicken or salami for extra protein.

Include artichoke hearts or roasted red peppers for more Mediterranean flavor.

Swap mozzarella for feta for a tangy twist.

Use whole-wheat or gluten-free pasta to suit dietary needs.

storage/reheating

Store pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Do not freeze as the vegetables and dressing texture may deteriorate.
Stir before serving to redistribute the dressing.

FAQs

Can I make pasta salad ahead of time?

Yes, it’s best made ahead to allow the flavors to blend. Just give it a stir before serving.

What type of pasta works best?

Short, sturdy pasta like rotini, fusilli, or penne holds up well and traps the dressing.

Can I use homemade dressing?

Absolutely! A mix of olive oil, vinegar, garlic, and herbs makes a great homemade version.

Is this dish served cold?

Yes, pasta salad is traditionally served cold or at room temperature.

Can I add beans?

Yes, chickpeas or white beans make a great protein-packed addition.

How can I keep it from drying out?

Add a splash more dressing before serving if it seems dry.

Is it vegetarian?

Yes, this version is vegetarian unless meat is added.

Can kids eat this?

Definitely! It’s colorful, flavorful, and easy to eat.

Conclusion

Easy Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing is a flavorful, flexible dish that’s perfect for nearly any occasion. It’s easy to prepare, endlessly customizable, and gets better as it sits. Whether you’re prepping for a picnic or planning weekday lunches, this recipe is a reliable go-to.

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