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Easy Pasta Salad

Easy Pasta Salad with Fresh Veggies for Effortless Summer Fun

This Easy Pasta Salad combines vibrant fresh vegetables with pasta for a delightful summer dish.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces tri-color rotini pasta Can be substituted with penne or elbow macaroni.
For the Veggies
  • 1 cup grape tomatoes Can substitute with cherry tomatoes.
  • 1 cup diced English cucumber Any cucumber variety works.
  • 1 cup chopped broccoli florets Swap with green beans or peas if desired.
  • 1 cup chopped yellow bell pepper Other bell pepper colors are welcome.
  • 1/2 cup sliced olives Can be omitted if preferred.
  • 1 cup thinly sliced baby carrots Larger diced carrots or bell pepper strips are alternatives.
  • 1/4 cup chopped red onion Green onions can be used for a milder taste or omit altogether.
For the Cheese
  • 1/2 cup finely shredded parmesan cheese Feta is a tasty alternative.
For the Dressing
  • 1/2 cup bottled Italian salad dressing Homemade versions can enhance the salad.

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Colander
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Spatula or spoon

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the tri-color rotini pasta and cook for 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. While pasta cools, wash and chop the veggies. Add the chopped grape tomatoes, cucumber, broccoli, yellow bell pepper, olives, baby carrots, and red onion to a large bowl.
  3. Once the pasta is cooled, transfer it to the bowl with the vegetables and gently fold to combine.
  4. Sprinkle the parmesan cheese over the salad, then add the Italian dressing and toss until everything is coated evenly.
  5. Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
  6. Just before serving, stir the salad and adjust the dressing or seasonings as needed.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 8gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 12mgSodium: 350mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 1mg

Notes

For best results, serve the salad fresh, but it can be stored in an airtight container for up to 5 days, best enjoyed within 24 hours.

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