Easy Italian Pasta Salad
A vibrant and refreshing pasta salad celebrating the flavors of Mediterranean cuisine, perfect for warm-weather gatherings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: No Cooking Required
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups rotini pasta
- 1 cup black olives, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, cubed
- 1/2 cup Italian dressing
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the rotini pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, drain, and rinse under cold water.
- Prepare your ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, sliced olives, halved cherry tomatoes, and cubed mozzarella cheese.
- Dress the salad: Pour the Italian dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently to combine.
- Season to perfection: Sprinkle with salt and freshly cracked pepper, adjusting seasoning as needed.
- Garnish and serve: Finish with fresh basil if desired, then chill or serve immediately.
Notes
Make-ahead tips: Prepare a day in advance; flavors will deepen. Avoid overcooking pasta and ensure you cool it completely after cooking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: pasta salad, Italian salad, Mediterranean, summer salad, easy recipe
Find it online: https://oliviatable.com/easy-italian-pasta-salad/