Description
A symphony of vibrant colors and rich flavors awaits, offering a perfect balance of fresh veggies, savory salami, creamy mozzarella, and a zesty dressing.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz rotini pasta (or any short pasta)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/2 cup mini mozzarella balls (bocconcini), halved
- 1/2 cup sliced salami or pepperoni (optional)
- 1/3 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup Italian dressing (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Start by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions until it reaches an al dente perfection. This process typically involves boiling water, adding a pinch of salt for flavor, and boiling the pasta for anywhere between 8 to 12 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta thoroughly and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and bring it to room temperature.
- As your pasta cools, get started on the vegetables. Halve the cherry tomatoes and dice the cucumber and red bell pepper to a size that complements the dish. Finely chop the red onion so it’s not overwhelming. These ingredients, when paired together, contribute both vibrant colors and a refreshing crunch to your salad.
- With your pasta and vegetables ready, gather all the salad ingredients in a large mixing bowl. Start with the cooled pasta and add in the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, sliced black olives, halved mozzarella balls, and optionally, sliced salami or pepperoni.
- Pour your choice of Italian dressing over the salad mixture, ensuring each bit is well coated. This dressing brings a tangy zest that ties all the ingredients together. Stir in some shredded Parmesan cheese and a modest sprinkle of salt and black pepper for seasoning. For a final touch of freshness, mix in the chopped parsley.
- Allow the salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This step lets the ingredients marinate, enhancing the flavors and making it truly delicious upon serving.
Notes
Best served chilled and can be made ahead of time to enhance flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
Nutrition
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sodium: 540 mg
- Protein: 12 g