Classic Pasta Salad
Classic pasta salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that brings together colorful tri-color rotini, fresh vegetables, and rich cheeses, all dressed in a zesty homemade vinaigrette. Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or family gatherings, this easy-to-make recipe provides a delightful burst of flavors in every bite. With its quick preparation and make-ahead convenience, this classic pasta salad will impress guests without requiring hours in the kitchen.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 24 people 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Scale
- 24 ounces tri-color rotini pasta (uncooked)
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 1 red onion (diced)
- 1 green bell pepper (diced)
- 12 ounces sliced turkey pepperoni
- 16 ounces mozzarella cheese (cubed)
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 8 ounces olives (sliced)
- 1 ½ cups olive oil
- ½ cup red apple vinegar
- 2 tablespoons Italian seasoning
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Cook the pasta in salted boiling water according to package directions for al dente texture. Drain and rinse with cold water until cool.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with cherry tomatoes, turkey pepperoni, diced onion, diced bell pepper, cubed mozzarella, grated parmesan, and sliced olives.
- In another bowl, whisk together olive oil, red apple vinegar, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes until smooth.
- Pour the vinaigrette over the pasta mixture and toss gently until evenly coated.
- Refrigerate for at least one hour before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Find it online: https://goldenrecipetime.com/classic-pasta-salad/