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Big Batch Italian Pasta Salad

Big Batch Italian Pasta Salad: Fresh, Flavorful, and Fun

Enjoy a vibrant Big Batch Italian Pasta Salad packed with flavors, perfect for weeknights or gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 1 pound Rotini Pasta Cook al dente to maintain texture.
For the Vegetables
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes Substitute with grape tomatoes if preferred.
  • 1 large Cucumber Can be replaced with zucchini for a twist.
  • 1 bell pepper Bell Pepper Use any color or mix for visual appeal.
  • 1 medium Red Onion Soak in water to mellow the taste if desired.
  • 1/2 cup Black Olives Green olives can be a tangier alternative.
For the Cheese
  • 8 ounces Mozzarella Cheese Opt for cubed cheese or dairy-free cheese for a vegan option.
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup Italian Dressing Homemade dressing can be used for a fresher taste.
For the Garnish
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Basil Dried basil can be used—just balance the quantity.

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Colander
  • Mixing Bowl
  • baking sheet

Method
 

Cooking Steps
  1. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add the rotini pasta and cook for 8-10 minutes until al dente, stirring occasionally. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander.
  2. After draining the pasta, quickly rinse it under cold running water for a couple of minutes to stop the cooking process. Spread the pasta out on a baking sheet or large plate to cool completely, about 5-10 minutes.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, add the cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, black olives, and mozzarella cheese. Toss these vibrant ingredients together until they’re well mixed.
  4. Pour the prepared Italian dressing over the salad mixture. Gently fold the ingredients together until evenly coated with the dressing.
  5. Sprinkle fresh basil leaves over the salad, adding a burst of herby flavor. Toss the salad lightly to incorporate the basil.
  6. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
  7. Before serving, stir the salad well to redistribute the ingredients. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper based on your preference.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 10gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 8IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 6mg

Notes

This salad keeps well in the fridge for up to three days and can also be frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

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