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Classic Pasta Salad

Classic Pasta Salad Your New Go-To for Gatherings

This Classic Pasta Salad is versatile, kid-friendly, and perfect for gatherings, bringing together seasonal veggies and a tangy homemade vinaigrette.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces Tri-color rotini pasta The base of your salad
For the Fresh Ingredients
  • 1 cup Cherry tomatoes Can substitute with grape tomatoes or bell peppers
  • 4 ounces Turkey pepperoni Substitute with grilled chicken or veggie options for lighter fare
  • 1/2 medium Red onion Soak in cold water to mellow flavor
  • 1 medium Green bell pepper Can be replaced with yellow or red peppers
  • 8 ounces Mozzarella cheese Use fresh for a gourmet touch or omit for vegan option
  • 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan cheese Nutritional yeast works for dairy-free
  • 1/2 cup Sliced olives Capers can be used as a substitute
For the Vinaigrette
  • 1/4 cup Olive oil Can substitute with avocado oil
  • 2 tablespoons Apple cider vinegar White wine vinegar can be used as substitute
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning Or a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic powder Fresh minced garlic can also be used
  • to taste Salt Essential for flavor balance
  • to taste Pepper Essential for flavor balance
  • 1/2 teaspoon Red pepper flakes Optional for heat

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • mixing bowl
  • Whisk

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Classic Pasta Salad
  1. Step 1: Cook the Pasta - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. Step 2: Combine Fresh Ingredients - In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, turkey pepperoni, diced red onion, chopped green bell pepper, mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, and sliced olives. Stir gently.
  3. Step 3: Prepare the Vinaigrette - In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes until smooth.
  4. Step 4: Dress the Salad - Pour the vinaigrette over the pasta mixture and toss gently until everything is coated.
  5. Step 5: Chill and Serve - Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour. Toss before serving for freshness.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 10gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 350mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

Prep all ingredients in advance for quicker assembly. Chill for maximum flavor enhancement.

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