Delight in this Easy Italian Pasta Salad perfect for your Memorial Day feast. Refreshing flavors will elevate your celebration! 149 chars
Ingredients
Scale
8 ounces of rotini or penne pasta
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup cucumber, diced
1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
1 cup bell peppers (any color), chopped
1 cup black olives, sliced
1/2 cup mozzarella balls (bocconcini) or shredded mozzarella
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup Italian dressing (store-bought or homemade)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta – Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually about 8-10 minutes). Drain and rinse under cold water to halt the cooking process.
Step 2: Chop the Vegetables – While your pasta cools, chop all your fresh vegetables into bite-sized pieces for even flavor distribution.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients – In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, chopped cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, red onion, bell peppers, black olives, mozzarella, and grated Parmesan cheese.
Step 4: Dress the Salad – Pour the Italian dressing over the salad and toss everything together until well combined. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
Step 5: Chill and Serve – Cover the pasta salad and let it chill for at least 15 minutes before serving. Serve with fresh herbs on top.
Notes
This Easy Italian Pasta Salad is packed with vibrant flavors and a perfect blend of textures, making it an ideal addition to your gathering. Perfect for Memorial Day!