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Classic Pasta Salad

Classic Pasta Salad with Flavor-Packed Homemade Vinaigrette

This Classic Pasta Salad is a crowd-pleaser, combining vibrant tri-color rotini, crisp vegetables, and a zesty vinaigrette for unforgettable gatherings.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 300
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces tri-color rotini pasta substitute with medium-shaped pasta if desired
For the Vegetables
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes diced
  • 1/2 medium red onion sliced
  • 1 medium green bell pepper sliced
For the Proteins
  • 1/2 cup sliced pepperoni or turkey pepperoni for a lighter option
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese diced
  • 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese omit for lactose-free option
For the Olives & Seasoning
  • 1/2 cup olives sliced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning or fresh herbs
For the Vinaigrette
  • 1/2 cup olive oil extra virgin for best results
  • 1/4 cup red wine vinegar can substitute with white wine vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder or fresh minced garlic
  • to taste salt
  • to taste pepper
  • optional red pepper flakes for heat

Equipment

  • large pot
  • colander
  • mixing bowl
  • whisk

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add tri-color rotini and cook until al dente, about 8–10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. Chop cherry tomatoes, slice red onion and green bell pepper. Dice pepperoni and mozzarella cheese. Combine with the cooked pasta in a large bowl.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
  4. Pour vinaigrette over the pasta and vegetable mixture. Toss gently to combine everything.
  5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld.
  6. Before serving, toss again and adjust seasonings with more olive oil or vinegar if needed.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 10gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 350mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 10mg

Notes

Allowing the salad to chill enhances the flavors. Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables and proteins.

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