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Italian Pasta Salad (Vegetarian) Recipe

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A classic vegetarian Italian pasta salad tossed with tender pasta, fresh vegetables, cheese, and a zesty homemade Italian dressing. Bright, flavorful, and perfect for picnics, potlucks, or meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz rotini or fusilli pasta
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup cucumber, diced
  • 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup black olives or kalamata olives, sliced
  • 1 cup mozzarella pearls or cubed fresh mozzarella
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan
  • 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
  • Italian Dressing:
  • 1/3 cup olive oil
  • 3 tbsp red wine vinegar
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

  • 1. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water.
  • 2. In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, olives, mozzarella, Parmesan, and basil.
  • 3. In a small bowl, whisk olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, Italian seasoning, garlic, salt, and pepper.
  • 4. Pour dressing over pasta salad and toss gently to coat.
  • 5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to let flavors meld.
  • 6. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

  • Add chickpeas or white beans for extra protein.
  • Use gluten-free pasta if needed.
  • Keeps well refrigerated for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Keywords: Italian pasta salad vegetarian, vegetarian pasta salad, cold pasta salad

Find it online: https://dishfoody.com/vegetarian-italian-pasta-salad-recipe/