A refreshing and flavorful pasta salad perfect for summer gatherings.
Author:Isabella
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:10 minutes
Total Time:55 minutes
Yield:6 servings 1x
Category:Salad
Method:Mixing
Cuisine:Italian
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
8 ounces rotini pasta
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup cucumber, diced
1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
1/2 cup black olives, sliced
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/2 cup mozzarella balls, halved
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
1/2 cup Italian dressing
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 mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, black olives, red onion, mozzarella balls, and fresh basil.
Pour the Italian dressing over the pasta salad and toss gently to combine.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
For added protein, consider mixing in diced grilled chicken or chickpeas.
Swap out the vegetables based on seasonal availability; try adding artichoke hearts or spinach for a different twist.