Description
Refreshing pasta salad with Italian dressing is a vibrant and delightful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, enjoying a picnic, or looking for a quick side for dinner, this pasta salad will impress your guests and satisfy your cravings. Packed with colorful vegetables like cucumbers, bell peppers, and grape tomatoes, combined with creamy feta cheese and zesty Italian dressing, it offers an irresistible blend of flavors and textures. Plus, it’s easy to prepare in just 25 minutes and fully customizable based on your preferences. Serve it as a standalone meal or pair it with grilled meats for a complete feast. Make it ahead of time for a convenient and healthy option during busy weekdays!
Ingredients
- 16 ounces rotini pasta
- 1 medium cucumber, chopped
- 1 pint grape tomatoes, halved
- 1 small bell pepper, chopped
- 1/4 cup finely diced red onion
- 1 cup Italian dressing
- 2/3 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup sliced black olives
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Boil water in a large pot, add salt and pasta, cook until al dente (about 8-10 minutes), then drain and rinse under cold water.
- Prepare the vegetables: Chop cucumber, halve tomatoes, chop bell pepper, and dice onion.
- Combine ingredients: In a mixing bowl, mix cooled pasta with vegetables, Italian dressing, feta cheese, and olives. Toss well.
- Chill or serve: For best flavor, chill in the fridge for an hour before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: Customize with proteins like grilled chicken or chickpeas. Use fresh herbs to enhance flavor. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days.