Save Easy Picnic Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing is a colorful, refreshing dish that perfectly balances crunchy vegetables, creamy mozzarella, and a zesty dressing. This vibrant pasta salad is ideal for summer picnics and gatherings, bringing a delightful burst of flavors and colors that everyone will appreciate.
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This pasta salad brings together simple ingredients that are easy to find and prepare, making it a stress-free addition to any meal. Whether served as a light side or a crowd-pleasing party appetizer, it embodies the spirit of summer freshness and vibrant flavors.
Ingredients
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- Pasta: 350 g (12 oz) short pasta (rotini, fusilli, or penne)
- Vegetables: 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cup cucumber, diced; 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced; 1/2 cup yellow bell pepper, diced; 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped; 1/4 cup black olives, sliced
- Cheese: 3/4 cup (90 g) mozzarella pearls or diced mozzarella
- Herbs: 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tbsp fresh basil, chopped (optional)
- Italian Dressing: 1/3 cup (80 ml) extra-virgin olive oil; 3 tbsp red wine vinegar; 1 tsp Dijon mustard; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1/2 tsp dried oregano; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- 1. Cook the pasta
- Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
- 2. Prepare the dressing
- In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic, oregano, salt, and black pepper to make the Italian dressing.
- 3. Combine salad ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red and yellow bell peppers, red onion, black olives, and mozzarella.
- 4. Add dressing
- Pour the dressing over the salad. Toss until everything is evenly coated.
- 5. Add herbs
- Add parsley and basil; toss again.
- 6. Chill
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving for best flavor.
- 7. Serve
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed before serving.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
This salad is very forgiving and can be adapted to what you have on hand. Using fresh, high-quality vegetables will elevate the flavors even more. Make sure to rinse the pasta under cold water thoroughly to stop the cooking process and keep it from sticking together.
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Varianten und Anpassungen
For added protein, mix in cooked diced chicken or chickpeas. Substitute feta cheese for mozzarella for a tangy twist. This salad can be made up to one day in advance; keep refrigerated to let flavors meld well.
Serviervorschläge
Pair this pasta salad with crisp white wine or sparkling lemonade. It complements grilled meats and fresh breads beautifully, making it an ideal side for summer gatherings or casual lunches.
Save With its fresh ingredients and tangy Italian dressing, this Easy Picnic Pasta Salad is your go-to for effortless entertaining and satisfying summer meals. Enjoy this bright and tasty dish anytime you want a breezy, colorful addition to your table.
