Looking for a refreshing and easy-to-make dish? This pasta salad recipe delivers vibrant flavors, colorful veggies, and a tangy Italian dressing. Perfect for summer picnics, potlucks, or quick lunches, this salad is easy to prepare and tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge.
Why This Pasta Salad Recipe is Perfect for You
- Quick and Simple: Ready in just 30 minutes!
- Packed with Fresh Flavors: Crisp bell peppers, juicy tomatoes, and savory olives.
- Perfect for Make-Ahead: Tastes even better when chilled overnight.
For a complete meal, serve it with Grilled Chicken or Garlic Bread.
Ingredients for the Best Pasta Salad Recipe
- 1 pound tri-colored spiral pasta
- 1 (16 oz) bottle Italian-style salad dressing
- 6 tbsp salad seasoning mix
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- ½ yellow bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (2.25 oz) can black olives, chopped
How to Make Pasta Salad Recipe in 5 Easy Steps
1. Cook the Pasta Perfectly
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the pasta and cook for 10-12 minutes until al dente.
- Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
2. Prepare the Flavorful Dressing
- In a bowl, whisk together the Italian dressing and salad seasoning mix until well blended.
3. Assemble the Ingredients
- In a large salad bowl, combine the cooked pasta, tomatoes, bell peppers, and black olives.
4. Add the Dressing and Toss
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to ensure everything is evenly coated.
5. Chill and Serve
- For the best flavor, refrigerate the pasta salad for at least 8 hours or overnight.
- Serve chilled and enjoy this flavorful dish.
Tips for the Perfect Pasta Salad Recipe
- Customize the Veggies: Add cucumbers, red onions, or feta for variety.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle with parsley or basil for extra flavor.
- Make It a Meal: Add grilled shrimp or chicken for a heartier salad.
For more refreshing ideas, try Fruit Salad as a side or dessert.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 400
- Total Fat: 25g (Saturated Fat: 4g)
- Cholesterol: 3mg
- Sodium: 1904mg
- Carbohydrates: 39g (Dietary Fiber: 4g, Sugars: 8g)
- Protein: 8g
- Potassium: 298mg
More Recipes to Try
- Grilled Chicken: Perfect with this pasta salad.
- Garlic Bread: An excellent side for any meal.
- Mediterranean Quinoa Salad: Another light and healthy option.
Final Thoughts on This Pasta Salad Recipe
This pasta salad recipe is quick, colorful, and packed with fresh flavors. Whether you’re making it for a party, a family dinner, or meal prep, it’s a dish that everyone will love. The best part? It tastes even better the next day!
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Tried this pasta salad recipe? Tag us with #PastaSalad #EasyRecipes #SummerMeals to show off your version!