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Zesty Cold Pasta Salad Recipe

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3.8 from 69 reviews

  • Author: Chef
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Zesty Cold Pasta Salad is a colorful and refreshing side dish combining tender rotini pasta with crisp vegetables like cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, and black olives, all tossed in a tangy homemade Italian-style dressing. Perfect for potlucks, barbecues, meal prep, or a light and healthy lunch, this vibrant salad can also be customized with feta cheese or grilled chicken for added protein.

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

  • 12 ounces rotini pasta
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup cucumber, diced
  • 1/2 cup bell pepper, diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup black olives, sliced
  • 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)

Dressing Ingredients

  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta: Boil the rotini pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse it thoroughly under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta for the salad.
  2. Combine the vegetables and pasta: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, diced bell pepper, thinly sliced red onion, sliced black olives, and crumbled feta cheese if using. Toss gently to mix the ingredients evenly.
  3. Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper until the dressing is fully emulsified and flavorful.
  4. Toss the salad with dressing: Pour the homemade dressing over the pasta and vegetable mixture and toss thoroughly until every ingredient is evenly coated with the zesty dressing.
  5. Chill before serving: Cover the salad and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together and to serve chilled, enhancing its refreshing qualities.

Notes

  • Add grilled chicken for a complete, protein-rich meal.
  • The salad keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container.
  • Fresh herbs such as basil or parsley can be added to brighten and enhance the flavor profile.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Boiling
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean

Find it online: https://kitchenmartha.com/zesty-cold-pasta-salad-recipe/