This Classic Italian Pasta Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish featuring tri-color rotini pasta, juicy cherry tomatoes, briny black olives, creamy mozzarella balls, and savory slices of salami. It’s an easy Italian Pasta Salad that can be prepared quickly and is perfect for summer gatherings.
Ideal for picnics, potlucks, or as a hearty side for Italian dinners, this Cold Pasta Salad is tossed in a bold Italian dressing, ensuring a delightful flavor infusion. Enjoy this refreshing dish as part of your summer pasta salad recipes.
Vibrant Ingredients in Classic Italian Pasta Salad
The Classic Italian Pasta Salad is a feast for the eyes and the palate. Featuring tri-color rotini pasta, this dish bursts with color and flavor. The bright cherry tomatoes add a juicy sweetness, while the black olives introduce a briny contrast. Creamy mozzarella balls complement the textures, and savory slices of salami provide a satisfying bite.
Each ingredient plays a role in creating a delightful balance, making this pasta salad a standout choice for summer gatherings. The combination of flavors and textures ensures that every forkful is a refreshing experience.
Preparation Made Simple
This Easy Italian Pasta Salad can be prepared in just about 30 minutes, making it an ideal option for those busy summer days. Start by cooking the tri-color rotini pasta until it reaches the perfect al dente texture. Rinsing it under cold water helps to cool the pasta quickly, setting the stage for a refreshing salad.
Next, combine the cooled pasta with the vibrant ingredients in a large bowl. The key to a successful pasta salad lies in the dressing. Drizzling a zesty Italian dressing over the mixture ensures that every ingredient is coated in flavor.
Chilling for Flavor Enhancement
Once everything is combined, it’s essential to let the pasta salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This resting period allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste of the dish. The salad becomes a harmonious blend of ingredients, perfect for serving at picnics or potlucks.
For an added touch, consider garnishing with fresh basil or parsley before serving. This not only elevates the presentation but also adds a hint of freshness that complements the zesty dressing.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This Classic Pasta Salad is versatile enough to be served as a side dish or as a main course. It fits seamlessly into various occasions, from casual summer barbecues to more formal gatherings. The Cold Pasta Salad can be a delightful addition to any meal, offering a refreshing contrast to heartier dishes.
Its appeal lies in its simplicity and the ability to cater to different tastes. Whether enjoyed as part of a buffet or as a standalone dish, this pasta salad is sure to please a crowd.
Nutritional Benefits
Not only is this Tri Color Pasta Salad visually appealing, but it also offers a balanced nutritional profile. With approximately 320 calories per serving, it provides a satisfying meal option without being overly indulgent. The combination of carbohydrates from the pasta, protein from the salami and mozzarella, and healthy fats from the olives makes it a well-rounded dish.
For those looking to enjoy a light yet filling meal, this Italian Pasta Salad is an excellent choice. It’s a great way to incorporate various food groups into one dish, making it a smart addition to summer pasta salad recipes.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving this pasta salad, presentation can enhance the overall dining experience. Consider placing the salad in a large, colorful bowl to showcase its vibrant ingredients. Pair it with a refreshing glass of lemonade or iced tea for a complete summer meal.
This Classic Italian Pasta Salad can also be customized to suit personal preferences. Feel free to add or substitute ingredients such as bell peppers, artichokes, or even grilled chicken for a heartier version. The possibilities are endless, making it a staple in the realm of antipasto pasta salads.
Easy Italian Pasta Salad Recipe
This Classic Pasta Salad combines colorful ingredients with a zesty dressing, making it a perfect choice for any occasion. The recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish and serves 6 people.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces tri-color rotini pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1 cup mozzarella balls, halved or mini mozzarella
- 6 ounces salami, sliced into strips
- 1/2 cup Italian dressing
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the tri-color rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced black olives, mozzarella balls, and salami strips.
- Dress the Salad: Drizzle the Italian dressing over the pasta mixture and toss until everything is well coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Chill: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired, and serve chilled.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: 320kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 30g