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Zesty Italian Pasta Salad Delight


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  • Author: Ena Recipes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Description

This vibrant salad is a summer staple, bursting with flavor from juicy cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, olives, cheese, and a zesty, herbed dressing. Quick to prep and perfect for sharing!


Ingredients

Scale

Salad:

  • 3 cups rotini pasta, cooked al dente

  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

  • 1 cup cucumber, diced

  • 1/2 cup black olives, sliced

  • 1/2 cup red bell pepper, chopped

  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced

  • 1/2 cup mozzarella cubes or shredded cheese (check for no animal rennet)

  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Zesty Dressing:

  • 1/2 cup olive oil

  • 1/4 cup white vinegar (ensure alcohol-free)

  • 1 tbsp lemon juice

  • 1 tsp garlic powder

  • 1 tsp onion powder

  • 1 tsp dried oregano

  • 1/2 tsp dried basil

  • 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)

  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

  • 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard (no wine vinegar)


Instructions

  1. Cook Pasta: Boil rotini in salted water until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water.

  2. Chop Veggies: Dice and slice all vegetables while pasta cools.

  3. Make Dressing: In a jar or bowl, whisk together all dressing ingredients until fully blended.

  4. Mix Salad: Combine pasta, vegetables, mozzarella, and parsley in a large bowl.

  5. Dress & Toss: Pour dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat.

  6. Chill & Serve: Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Notes

For extra protein, you can add grilled chicken or chickpeas.

Great make-ahead dish for meal prep or gatherings.

 

Best served cold.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Lunch & Dinner
  • Method: Tossed
  • Cuisine: Italian-Inspired

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (approx.)
  • Calories: ~320 kcal
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 300mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 13g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 8g
  • Cholesterol: 10mg