Pasta Salad Perfection: A Light and Zesty Delight
Forget those heavy, mayo-laden pasta salads! This recipe is a breath of fresh air, bursting with flavor and vibrant ingredients. It’s the perfect dish for a quick lunch, a summer barbecue, or a potluck gathering.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Light and Refreshing: This pasta salad is dressed with a zesty Italian dressing instead of heavy mayonnaise, making it a lighter and healthier option.
- Flavorful: The combination of pepperoni, mozzarella, fresh vegetables, and Italian seasoning creates a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
- Easy to Make: With minimal chopping involved, this recipe is incredibly easy to whip up, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies, cheeses, or herbs to make it your own!
- Perfect for Meal Prep: This salad actually gets better with time. Make ahead and keep in the fridge for a few days, for an easy and fast grab and go meal.
Ingredients
- 2 cups rotini pasta
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 cucumber, chopped
- 1 cup grape tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup pepperoni, sliced or chopped
- 8 oz mozzarella cheese, cubed
- 2.25 oz can sliced black olives, drained
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 cup Italian dressing
Instructions
- Cook the pasta in a large pot of boiling salted water until al dente. Drain well and set aside to cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chopped onion, cucumber, halved tomatoes, sliced pepperoni, cubed mozzarella, and drained black olives.
- Sprinkle the garlic powder and Italian seasoning over the mixture.
- Pour the Italian dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably a few hours, to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve chilled and enjoy!
Tips and Variations
- Add protein: Grilled chicken or chickpeas are great additions to make it a more filling meal.
- Veggies galore: Bell peppers, artichoke hearts, or sun-dried tomatoes can add extra flavor and nutrients.
- Cheese please: Try using feta, provolone or parmesan for a different flavor profile.
- Herbs: Fresh basil, parsley, or oregano can elevate the flavor of the salad.
- Make it vegan: Use vegan cheese and plant-based pepperoni for a delicious plant-based option.
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This vibrant and zesty pasta salad is a fantastic way to enjoy a light, nutritious meal. It's easy to make and even easier to love! Happy cooking!