Description
Easy Pasta Salad is a quick and versatile side dish made with pasta, fresh vegetables, and a zesty dressing, ideal for potlucks, picnics, or busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 12 oz rotini or elbow pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1 cup Italian dressing
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool completely.
- In a large bowl, combine pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, black olives, and cheddar cheese.
- Pour Italian dressing over the mixture and toss to coat evenly.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to blend.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired before serving.
Notes
- Use tri-color pasta for a more colorful presentation.
- Add grilled chicken or pepperoni for a heartier salad.
- Can be made a day ahead for even better flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 15mg