Here’s a versatile and refreshing Pasta Salad recipe—perfect for picnics, lunches, or a side dish 🍝🥗
🍝 Classic Pasta Salad
Ingredients:
- 3 cups cooked pasta (rotini, penne, or bowtie work well)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- ½ cup bell pepper, diced
- ½ cup red onion, finely chopped
- ½ cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice)
- ¼ cup olives (optional)
- ½ cup Italian dressing (or homemade vinaigrette)
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Optional: fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or cilantro
Instructions:
- Cook pasta
Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool. - Prepare vegetables
Chop tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, onion, and any other desired veggies. - Mix salad
In a large bowl, combine pasta, vegetables, olives, and shredded cheese. - Add dressing
Pour Italian dressing over the salad. Toss until evenly coated. - Chill & serve
Refrigerate 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Taste and adjust salt and pepper before serving.
✨ Tips:
- Use rotini or bowtie pasta for better dressing retention.
- Add cooked chicken, ham, or tuna for a protein boost.
- Swap Italian dressing for ranch or balsamic vinaigrette for a flavor twist.
- Make ahead: pasta salad keeps well in the fridge for 2–3 days.
I can also give you a creamy mayo-based pasta salad version that’s rich and indulgent if you want 😄
Do you want me to do that?
