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Italian Pasta Salad

Italian Pasta Salad: A Fresh Twist for Your Summer Table

An irresistible Italian Pasta Salad featuring vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients, perfect for summer gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 portions
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces Pasta (rotini or penne) Cooked to al dente
For the Vegetables
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes Substitute with diced tomatoes if desired
  • 1 cup Bell Peppers A mix of red, yellow, and green for color
  • 1/2 cup Red Onion Can substitute with green onions
  • 1 cup Cucumber Zucchini can be used as an alternative
For the Extras
  • 1/2 cup Olives (Kalamata or green) Pimento-stuffed olives for sweetness can be used
  • 1 cup Feta Cheese Can be replaced with goat cheese
For the Dressing
  • 1/4 cup Olive Oil Avocado oil can be a healthier alternative
  • 3 tablespoons Red Wine Vinegar White wine vinegar can be used instead
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard Whole grain mustard for texture is an option
  • 2 cloves Garlic (minced) Garlic powder can be substituted if needed

Equipment

  • large pot
  • mixing bowl
  • colander
  • small bowl
  • whisk

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water for 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. Prepare vegetables by dicing cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, red onion, and cucumber into bite-sized pieces.
  3. Add olives and crumbled feta cheese to the vegetable mix and gently combine.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  5. Combine cooled pasta with the vegetable and cheese mixture, then drizzle dressing over and toss gently.
  6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving for best flavors.

Nutrition

Serving: 1portionCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 7gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 450mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 10mg

Notes

This salad is perfect for picnics and can be made a day in advance. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

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