Classic Italian Pasta Salad
Brace yourself for a pasta salad that actually tastes like something. No bland noodles drowning in mayo here—just bold Italian flavors in every bite. This recipe tosses together al dente pasta, juicy tomatoes, crisp bell peppers, and briny olives with a punchy vinaigrette. Fresh basil and parmesan? Of course. It’s quick, easy, and—dare we say—better than your average backyard BBQ side. Make it once, and you’ll forever judge store-bought versions. Ready to upgrade your pasta salad game? Let’s do this.
Classic Italian Pasta Salad
A zesty, flavor-packed Italian pasta salad with crisp veggies, savory olives, and a tangy dressing. Perfect for picnics, BBQs, or lazy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 12 oz rotini pasta or whatever shape makes you happy
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved (the juicier, the better)
- ½ cup black olives sliced (for that briny kick)
- ½ cup bell peppers diced (pick your color drama)
- ¼ cup red onion finely chopped (because flavor matters)
- ½ cup cucumber diced (adds crunch, not wateriness)
- ¼ cup parmesan cheese grated (the good kind, not powder)
- 2 tbsp fresh basil chopped (dried won’t cut it)
- ¼ cup Italian dressing homemade, preferably
- 1 tbsp olive oil extra virgin, obviously
- Salt & black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water—yes, rinse it.
- Chop all veggies while the pasta cools. Try to keep fingers intact.
- Toss pasta, veggies, and olives into a large bowl. Add cheese and basil—because flavor is everything.
- Whisk together dressing ingredients if making from scratch. Otherwise, pretend you did.
- Drizzle dressing over the salad and mix well. Taste. Add more salt or pepper if it feels right.
- Chill for 30 minutes or serve immediately if patience isn’t your thing.
Notes
Nutritional Values (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 9g
Vitamins & Minerals (Per Serving)
- Vitamin C: 15%
- Vitamin A: 10%
- Calcium: 12%
- Iron: 8%
- Potassium: 6%
Additional Notes & Tips
- Use tri-color pasta for an Instagram-worthy bowl.
- Let it sit longer for even better flavor absorption.
- Add grilled chicken or salami if you want extra protein.
- Swap parmesan for feta if you’re feeling rebellious.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container—if there are any.
