When the sun is shining brightly and outdoor gatherings are on the horizon, a refreshing pasta salad is the perfect dish to serve to friends and family. One of our favorite variations is the Cold Pasta Salad Italian Dressing. This dish combines the flavors of tender pasta, crisp vegetables, and a zesty Italian dressing that delights taste buds with every bite. It’s a simple yet satisfying recipe that is sure to become a staple at your summer gatherings.
**Cold Pasta Salad Italian Dressing**
**Ingredients:**
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cucumber, diced
– 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese balls, halved
– Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
**1. Cook the Pasta:**
Fill a large pot with water and add a generous pinch of salt. Bring the water to a boil over high heat. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Transfer the pasta to a large mixing bowl.
**2. Prepare the Vegetables:**
While the pasta is cooking, prepare the vegetables. Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber, thinly slice the red onion, slice the black olives, and chop the fresh basil leaves.
**3. Assemble the Salad:**
Add the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, black olives, and fresh basil to the bowl with the cooked pasta. Gently toss the ingredients together to combine.
**4. Add the Mozzarella:**
Scatter the halved mozzarella cheese balls over the pasta salad.
**5. Dress the Salad:**
Drizzle your favorite Italian dressing over the salad. Start with a few tablespoons and add more as needed to coat the ingredients evenly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
**6. Chill and Serve:**
Cover the pasta salad with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld. Before serving, give the salad a gentle toss to redistribute the dressing. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Pasta salads are versatile dishes that can be customized to suit your preferences. Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, cheeses, or proteins to make this recipe your own. You can also make this salad ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for a quick and convenient meal option.
With its vibrant colors, fresh flavors, and satisfying textures, the Cold Pasta Salad Italian Dressing is a crowd-pleaser that is perfect for picnics, potlucks, or as a light lunch or dinner option. Enjoy the taste of Italy in every forkful with this delicious and easy-to-make pasta salad recipe!
