Italian Pasta Salad
User Reviews
5
Italian Pasta Salad
Description
This Italian Pasta Salad starts with al dente rotini pasta that offers a firm bite, complemented with juicy halved cherry tomatoes and cubed mozzarella cheese for creaminess. Pepperoni slices add a savory, slightly spicy element, while diced green bell pepper and black olives contribute texture and briny notes. The salad is completed with a tangy Italian dressing and shredded Parmesan cheese that tie the ingredients together.
The flavors harmonize after chilling for an hour, allowing the dressing to soak into the pasta and vegetables. This method ensures each bite is flavorful and balanced with fresh and rich components. The salad remains refreshing and substantial enough to serve as a side or light main dish.
Italian Pasta Salad is well suited for picnics, potlucks, or casual meals. It pairs well with grilled meats, sandwiches, or can be enjoyed on its own. Adjusting ingredients like adding red onion or fresh herbs can customize the flavor further.
To enhance the salad, consider adding red onion for sharper flavor or fresh mozzarella for creamier texture, as suggested in original notes. Fresh herbs can also brighten the dish and add aromatic complexity.
Ingredients
- 16 oz rotini pasta (We love the multi-colored)
- 2 cups cherry tomato halved
- 1/2 pound mozzarella cheese cubed
- 4 oz pepperoni cut in half
- 1 green bell pepper diced
- 1 can black olives 6 oz, drained
- 8 oz Italian dressing
- 6 oz Parmesan Cheese shredded
Instructions
- Bring a large of of water to a boil.
- Add pasta and cook until al dente. You want your pasta firm.
- Drain, and rinse with cold water. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine the pasta with tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, pepperoni, green pepper, and black olives.
- Pour the Italian dressing over the top. Add in the Parmesan cheese and stir to coat.
- Let sit in the refrigerator for at least one hour for the flavors to come together.
Notes
- Adding red onion provides a sharper, more pungent flavor that complements the other ingredients.
- Fresh mozzarella or fresh herbs can be included to enhance the salad’s texture and aroma.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 12Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 398 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 398kcal | 20% |
| Carbohydrates | 34g | 11% |
| Protein | 17g | 34% |
| Fat | 22g | 34% |
| Saturated Fat | 8g | 40% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 3g | 18% |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 9g | 45% |
| Trans Fat | 1g | 50% |
| Cholesterol | 34mg | 11% |
| Sodium | 1211mg | 50% |
| Potassium | 239mg | 5% |
| Fiber | 3g | 12% |
| Sugar | 4g | 8% |
| Vitamin A | 531IU | 11% |
| Vitamin C | 14mg | 16% |
| Calcium | 296mg | 30% |
| Iron | 1mg | 6% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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