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Olive Garden Copycat Pasta Salad

Delicious Olive Garden Copycat Pasta Salad You Can Make Today

This Olive Garden Copycat Pasta Salad is a vibrant, easy dish with rotini, fresh veggies, and zesty Italian dressing, perfect for summer gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 12 oz rotini pasta This spiral pasta perfectly holds onto the flavorful dressing and ingredients.
  • 1 cup Italian dressing Opt for Olive Garden Signature for authentic taste.
  • 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced Offers sweetness and bright color.
  • 1/2 cup green bell pepper, diced Adds slight bitterness that balances the sweetness.
  • 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced Provides a sharp kick.
  • 1/2 cup carrot, grated Contributes crunch and sweetness.
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved Fresh and juicy.
  • 1/2 cup black olives, sliced Briny and salty.
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, cubed Adds creamy richness.
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese Enhances umami notes.
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning A blend of herbs that elevates the taste.
  • salt and pepper to taste Essential seasonings to brighten flavors.
  • fresh parsley, chopped for garnish Brightens the dish with color and freshness.

Equipment

  • large mixing bowl
  • Cooking Pot
  • colander

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook the Pasta: Begin by cooking 12 ounces of rotini pasta according to the package instructions, about 8-10 minutes until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to cool it down. Set aside in a large mixing bowl.
  2. Mix in Dressings and Cheese: In the bowl with the cooled rotini, pour in 1 cup of Italian dressing and add 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Toss gently to coat the pasta thoroughly.
  3. Add the Vegetables: Incorporate 1/2 cup each of diced red and green bell peppers, 1/2 cup of thinly sliced red onion, 1/2 cup of grated carrot, 1/2 cup of halved cherry tomatoes, and 1/2 cup of sliced black olives. Toss the mixture gently.
  4. Fold in the Cheese: Gently fold in 1 cup of cubed mozzarella cheese into the salad, ensuring it is evenly distributed.
  5. Season and Toss Again: Sprinkle 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning and add salt and pepper to taste. Toss everything gently to ensure even seasoning throughout.
  6. Chill the Salad: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld.
  7. Final Toss and Garnish: Before serving, give the salad a gentle toss and garnish with fresh parsley.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 34gProtein: 8gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 11gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 540mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 450IUVitamin C: 50mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 1mg

Notes

For best flavor, allow the salad to chill before serving and adjust seasonings to preference.

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