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The Best Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing


  • Author: jackson-walker
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A vibrant pasta salad bursting with colors, flavors, and textures, perfect for picnics and gatherings.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups cooked Pasta (Rotini, Fusilli, or Penne)
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes, halved
  • 1 medium Cucumber, diced
  • 1 cup Bell Peppers, diced
  • 1 small Red Onion, finely chopped
  • 1 cup Blanched Broccoli Florets
  • 1/2 cup Black Olives, sliced
  • 1 cup Feta Cheese or Fresh Mozzarella, crumbled or diced
  • 1 cup Italian Dressing, store-bought or homemade

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta in boiling salted water until al dente (8-10 minutes). Stir occasionally.
  2. Drain and rinse the pasta under cold water to stop cooking.
  3. Dice the cucumbers, bell peppers, and onion; halve the cherry tomatoes, and prepare broccoli florets.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, chopped veggies, olives, and cheese.
  5. Drizzle Italian dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently.
  6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld.
  7. Serve and enjoy, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

This pasta salad is even better the next day, so feel free to make it ahead of time!

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Chilling
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 250
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 300mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 8g
  • Cholesterol: 15mg

Keywords: pasta salad, Italian dressing, vegetarian, picnic, potluck