This Easy Summer Pasta Salad is colorful and refreshing! With yummy veggies, pasta, and a light dressing, it’s perfect for warm days and picnics.
Making this salad always brightens my day! It’s so easy to prepare, and you can toss in your favorite veggies. Trust me, leftovers taste just as great!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: This shape holds dressing and veggies well, but you can use any short pasta like fusilli, bowtie, or penne. Gluten-free pasta works well too if needed.
Cherry Tomatoes: Mixing red and yellow adds color and flavor. If fresh ones aren’t available, canned diced tomatoes are an option, though they may change the textural bite.
Zucchini: I love the crunch it adds! For a different taste, try cucumber or bell pepper. Just ensure you slice them thinly for even mixing.
Kalamata Olives: They provide a tangy kick. If you prefer, any other olives, like black or green, are good substitutes. Just adjust based on your taste!
Fresh Mozzarella: This cheese adds a delightful creaminess. You can swap it with feta cheese for a saltier flavor or even omit it for a dairy-free version.
How Do I Make Sure My Pasta Salad Stays Fresh?
To keep your pasta salad fresh and tasty, follow these steps:
- Cool the pasta quickly by rinsing it under cold water. This stops the cooking process and avoids mushy pasta.
- Make sure to chill the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors mix well.
- If you’re making it ahead, store the dressing separately until you’re ready to serve. Add it just before serving to keep everything crisp.
With these tips, your summer pasta salad will be a hit at every gathering! Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Summer Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Veggies:
- 12 ounces rotini pasta (or any short pasta)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (use a mix of red and yellow)
- 1 medium zucchini, thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced into thin strips
- 1/2 cup kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), halved if large
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
Dressing:
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Finishing Touch:
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Summer Pasta Salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and at least 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. In total, you’ll need about 45 minutes before it’s ready to be served!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to the packaging instructions until al dente. Once it’s cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse it under cold water to cool it down quickly. Make sure it’s well-drained to avoid a watery salad.
2. Mixing the Veggies:
In a large mixing bowl, combine your cooled pasta with cherry tomatoes, the sliced zucchini, red bell pepper strips, kalamata olives, fresh mozzarella balls, and green onions. This colorful mix is sure to brighten your salad!
3. Preparing the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Taste it to see if you’d like to add more seasoning!
4. Bringing It All Together:
Pour the dressing over your pasta and veggie mixture. Gently toss everything together to ensure all ingredients are coated in the dressing.
5. Finishing Touch:
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top of the salad and give it a light toss. This adds a delicious layer of flavor!
6. Chilling the Salad:
Cover the salad with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Chilling lets all the tasty flavors blend together.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
After chilling, your Easy Summer Pasta Salad is ready to be served! Enjoy it cold or at room temperature as a delightful summer side dish or light main course.
Bon appétit!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Gluten-Free Pasta for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Gluten-free pasta works perfectly in this salad. Just be sure to follow the cooking instructions on the package, as gluten-free pasta may have different cooking times.
How Long Will Leftovers Last in the Fridge?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a quick stir before serving, as the dressing may settle.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! This salad tastes even better after chilling, and you can prepare it up to one day in advance. Just hold off on adding the cheese until you’re ready to serve to keep it fresh.
What Other Veggies Can I Add to My Salad?
This recipe is very versatile! Feel free to add veggies like cucumbers, spinach, asparagus, or even roasted bell peppers for extra flavor and texture. Just keep the overall balance in mind!
