Description
A refreshing and easy-to-make chilled summer pasta salad, perfect for warm weather gatherings.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces rotini pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1 cup mozzarella balls, halved
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, black olives, mozzarella balls, and fresh basil.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss gently to combine all ingredients.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
- Before serving, give the salad a gentle toss and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Notes
- For a protein boost, add grilled chicken or chickpeas.
- To make it a bit spicier, include diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Chilled
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 10mg