🥗 Pasta Salad Recipe
This classic pasta salad is bursting with color, crunch, and flavor. Made with tender pasta, crisp veggies, tangy dressing, and optional add-ins like cheese or protein, it’s a perfect make-ahead side dish for BBQs, potlucks, or light lunches.
Equipment
- Large pot
- colander
- Cutting board and knife
- Mixing bowl
- Salad tongs or serving spoon
Ingredients
- 3 cups rotini or bowtie pasta uncooked
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1 cup cucumber diced
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper chopped
- 1/2 cup red onion finely chopped
- 1/2 cup black olives sliced
- 3/4 cup feta cheese crumbled (optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped
- 1 cup Italian dressing store-bought or homemade
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
- Prepare Veggies: While the pasta cooks, chop all vegetables and herbs.
- Mix Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chopped veggies, olives, and feta.
- Add Dressing: Pour Italian dressing over the salad and toss to coat evenly.
- Season and Chill: Add salt and pepper to taste. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving for best flavor.
Notes
Use tri-color pasta for a festive look
Add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving for brightness
Substitute feta with mozzarella balls or cheddar cubes
Let it sit overnight for deeper flavor development