Looking for a delicious and nutritious dish that’s perfect for any occasion? This Healthy Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing is sure to be a hit at your next gathering. Packed with vibrant flavors and colorful ingredients, this recipe is a refreshing twist on the classic pasta salad. Whether you’re preparing it for a potluck, picnic, or a quick weeknight meal, this dish is not only easy to make but also a great way to get your vegetable fix. Let’s dive into making this tasty and wholesome Healthy Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing.
**Ingredients:**
– 8 oz fusilli pasta
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 small cucumber, chopped
– 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup black olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
– 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, cubed
**Italian Dressing:**
– 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp honey
– 1/2 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. Cook the fusilli pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Allow it to cool completely.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, yellow bell pepper, red bell pepper, cucumber, red onion, black olives, basil leaves, and mozzarella cheese.
3. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the ingredients for the Italian dressing: extra-virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, honey, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasoning to your preference.
4. Pour the Italian dressing over the pasta salad ingredients in the large mixing bowl.
5. Gently toss the salad until all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
6. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the pasta salad for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
7. Before serving, give the pasta salad a final toss to redistribute the dressing. You may garnish it with additional basil leaves or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
8. Enjoy your Healthy Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing as a standalone meal or serve it as a delightful side dish alongside grilled chicken, fish, or as part of a summer buffet spread.
The vibrant colors, crisp textures, and zesty Italian dressing of this Healthy Pasta Salad make it a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for both warm-weather gatherings and cozy indoor meals. With a perfect balance of vegetables, herbs, and a tangy dressing, this dish not only tastes great but is also a wholesome addition to your menu. Make this recipe your own by adding your favorite seasonal vegetables or protein choices to customize it to your liking. Give this Healthy Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing a try, and elevate your dining experience with a burst of fresh flavors in every bite!
