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Classic Pasta Salad

Classic Pasta Salad That Everyone Will Love and Devour

A colorful and delicious Classic Pasta Salad perfect for gatherings, packed with vibrant tri-color rotini, fresh veggies, and zesty vinaigrette.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 12 oz Tri-color Rotini Pasta Feel free to swap for macaroni or shells.
For the Vegetables
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes Grape tomatoes work well as a substitute.
  • 1/2 cup Red Onion Use yellow or sweet onions for a milder taste.
  • 1 cup Green Bell Pepper Red or yellow bell peppers add sweetness.
For the Cheeses
  • 8 oz Mozzarella Cheese You can substitute with provolone or a dairy-free option.
  • 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Try nutritional yeast for a vegan alternative.
For the Meat (Optional)
  • 1 cup Sliced Pepperoni Omit for a vegetarian version.
  • 1/2 cup Olives Kalamata or black olives are great alternatives.
For the Vinaigrette
  • 1/2 cup Olive Oil Avocado oil can work just as well.
  • 1/4 cup Red Wine Vinegar Substitute with white wine or apple cider vinegar if needed.
  • 1 tbsp Italian Seasoning Switch to dried oregano or basil for variety.
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder Fresh minced garlic can intensify flavor.
  • 1 tsp Salt Adjust according to your palate.
  • 1/2 tsp Black Pepper Essential for enhancing overall taste.
  • 1/4 tsp Red Pepper Flakes Adds a hint of heat, optional.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • colander
  • large mixing bowl
  • Small bowl
  • spatula

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Classic Pasta Salad
  1. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add the tri-color rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically around 7-9 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse it under cold water until completely cooled.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with halved cherry tomatoes, sliced pepperoni, diced red onion, and chopped green bell pepper. Next, add the cubed mozzarella and grated parmesan cheese, along with any olives you prefer. Toss everything together gently to distribute the ingredients evenly.
  3. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and red wine vinegar until emulsified. Then stir in the Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired. Mix until well incorporated.
  4. Pour the homemade vinaigrette over the pasta salad mixture in the large bowl. Use a spatula or large spoon to gently toss all the ingredients together.
  5. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the salad to an airtight container, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 10gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 450mgPotassium: 250mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

Taste and adjust the seasoning of the vinaigrette before adding it to ensure optimal flavor.

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