Description

A quick, colorful, and refreshing cold pasta salad packed with vegetables, cheese, and tossed in tangy Italian dressing. Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or weekday meal prep. This dish is endlessly customizable and comes together in under 30 minutes. The dressing soaks into the pasta, while fresh ingredients like bell peppers, cucumber, and tomatoes add bite and brightness. Whether you’re serving it as a side or a light main dish, this salad is guaranteed to become a go-to favorite for warm weather days.

Ingredients

12 oz rotini pasta (or fusilli)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup cucumber, diced
½ cup red onion, thinly sliced
1 cup mixed bell peppers, diced
½ cup black olives, sliced
1 cup mozzarella (shredded or cubed)
¾ cup Italian dressing (plus more to taste)
¼ cup fresh parsley or basil, chopped
Salt and black pepper to taste

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Instructions

Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
While the pasta cools, chop all the vegetables and herbs.
In a large bowl, combine pasta, tomatoes, cucumber, onion, bell peppers, olives, and cheese.
Pour Italian dressing over the mixture and toss gently to coat.
Stir in fresh herbs and season with salt and pepper.
Refrigerate for 30–60 minutes before serving.
Taste and adjust with extra dressing or lemon juice as needed.

Notes

For a protein boost, add grilled chicken, chickpeas, or pepperoni.
Use homemade Italian dressing for fresher flavor.
Add dressing just before serving if storing overnight to keep it vibrant.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Side Dish / Salad
Method: Boiling
Cuisine: American