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Classic Pasta Salad

Classic Pasta Salad that's Perfect for Any Gathering

Classic Pasta Salad is a versatile dish that combines tri-color rotini, fresh veggies, and a homemade vinaigrette, perfect for any gathering.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta and Veggies
  • 8 oz Tri-color rotini pasta
  • 1 cup Cherry tomatoes Halved
  • 1 medium Red onion Diced
  • 1 medium Green bell pepper Diced
For the Protein and Cheese
  • 4 oz Sliced pepperoni
  • 1 cup Cubed mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup Grated parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup Sliced olives
For the Vinaigrette
  • 1/2 cup Olive oil
  • 1/4 cup Red wine vinegar
  • 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
  • 1 tsp Garlic powder
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Pepper
  • to taste Red pepper flakes

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Whisk
  • Spatula

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the tri-color rotini pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente, usually around 7-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water until fully cooled.
  2. While the pasta cools, chop the cherry tomatoes, dice the green bell pepper and red onion, and slice the pepperoni. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with the cherry tomatoes, red onion, green bell pepper, mozzarella, parmesan, and olives.
  3. In a smaller bowl, whisk together ½ cup of olive oil and ¼ cup of red wine vinegar until well combined. Add in Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste.
  4. Pour the freshly made vinaigrette over the combined pasta salad ingredients in the large bowl. Gently toss everything together using a spatula or large spoon, ensuring even coating.
  5. After mixing, cover the salad tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 10gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 25mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 5mg

Notes

Allowing the cooked pasta to cool properly enhances the dressing absorption, making each bite flavorful. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.

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