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Classic Pasta Salad

Classic Pasta Salad: A Crowd-Pleasing Party Essential

This Classic Pasta Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that is perfect for parties and gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 300

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 8 ounces Tri-color rotini pasta Can substitute with macaroni or shells.
  • 1 cup Cherry tomatoes Halved.
  • 4 ounces Sliced pepperoni Can be substituted with salami or omitted for vegetarian.
  • 1 small Red onion Diced; can substitute with green onion.
  • 1 cup Green bell pepper Chopped; can use red or yellow for sweeter flavor.
  • 8 ounces Mozzarella cheese Cubed or mozzarella pearls.
  • ½ cup Grated parmesan cheese Optional for dairy-free version.
  • ½ cup Olives Sliced; can substitute with capers.
For the Vinaigrette Dressing
  • 1.5 cups Olive oil Can substitute with avocado oil.
  • 0.5 cups Red wine vinegar White wine vinegar can be used as a substitute.
  • 2 tablespoons Italian seasoning Can use a mix of dried herbs.
  • 2 teaspoons Garlic powder Fresh minced garlic can be used instead.
  • 1.5 teaspoons Salt
  • 1 teaspoon Pepper
  • 0.5 teaspoon Red pepper flakes Omit for milder dressing.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Colander
  • Whisk

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, add the tri-color rotini pasta, and cook according to package instructions until al dente (8-10 minutes). Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. Combine salad ingredients: In a mixing bowl, add the cooled rotini pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced pepperoni, diced red onion, and chopped green bell pepper. Fold in the mozzarella, grated parmesan cheese, and sliced olives.
  3. Prepare the vinaigrette: In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil and red wine vinegar. Then incorporate Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
  4. Dress the salad: Pour the vinaigrette over the salad mixture and gently toss until everything is well coated.
  5. Chill and serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature after letting it sit.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 34gProtein: 10gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 25mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 1000IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

For best flavor, prepare a day ahead, but serve within 24 hours for best texture. Optional to add seasonal vegetables to personalize the dish.

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