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Italian Dressing Pasta Salad: A Delicious & Easy Recipe

This vibrant Italian Dressing Pasta Salad is a perfect side dish or light meal. It's quick to make, packed with flavor, and always a crowd-pleaser.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Pasta Salad, Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: American, Italian-inspired
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta Salad Ingredients
  • 1 pound Rotini Pasta
  • 1 cup Italian Dressing (Your favorite brand)
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes halved
  • 1 cup Cucumber diced
  • 1/2 cup Red Onion thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup Black Olives sliced
  • 1/2 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese optional
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Basil chopped, optional

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • Large Mixing Bowl

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Cook the rotini pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
  2. While the pasta is cooking, prepare the vegetables: halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber, and thinly slice the red onion.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the cooked and cooled pasta, Italian dressing, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and black olives.
  4. If using, stir in the mozzarella cheese and fresh basil.
  5. Gently toss everything together until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
  6. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This step is crucial for the best taste.
  7. Serve chilled and enjoy! You can add more Italian dressing before serving if desired.

Notes

For a creamier salad, add a dollop of ricotta cheese or pesto before serving. Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or artichoke hearts. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.