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Cold Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing

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Bright, refreshing, and oh-so-easy to make, this cold pasta salad with Italian dressing is the perfect dish for any summer gathering. Bursting with vibrant veggies and drizzled in zesty Italian dressing, it’s not just a side dish—it’s a crowd-pleaser that elevates any meal. Whether you’re hosting a picnic or enjoying a casual dinner at home, this salad promises delightful flavors in every bite.

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups rotini pasta (uncooked)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
  • 1 cup cucumber (chopped)
  • 1 cup bell peppers (chopped, any color)
  • ½ cup red onion (thinly sliced)
  • ½ cup Italian dressing (store-bought or homemade)
  • ½ cup Parmesan cheese (freshly grated)

Instructions

  1. Cook the rotini pasta in salted boiling water until al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
  2. While the pasta cooks, chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell peppers, and slice the red onion.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled pasta and chopped vegetables.
  4. Drizzle the Italian dressing over the salad and mix well until everything is coated.
  5. Add freshly grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste; toss lightly to combine.
  6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving for optimal flavor.
  • Author: Olivia Carter
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: No Cook
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 480mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 38g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 20mg