Classic Italian Pasta Salad is your go-to dish for a refreshing and satisfying meal. This recipe brings together vibrant flavors and textures, making it perfect for any occasion, whether it's a summer picnic or a cozy indoor gathering.
The star of the show is the rotini pasta, which holds onto the dressing well with its spiral shape, ensuring every bite is flavorful. Cherry tomatoes add a burst of sweetness and juiciness. Black olives bring a salty, briny flavor that complements the other ingredients. The green bell pepper adds a touch of crunch and freshness. Red onion gives the salad a subtle sharpness, while mozzarella cheese provides a creamy, mild contrast. Parmesan cheese adds a nutty, savory depth. The Italian dressing ties everything together with its zesty and herby notes. Finally, fresh basil offers a fragrant and aromatic finish.
This pasta salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. It's also an excellent side dish for barbecues or potlucks, holding its own among other hearty dishes.
Start by cooking the rotini pasta according to the package instructions. Aim for al dente, which usually takes about 7-9 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down. This step is crucial for a pasta salad to prevent the pasta from becoming mushy.
Now, in a large bowl, toss together the cherry tomatoes, black olives, green bell pepper, red onion, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese. This combination forms the flavorful base of your salad.
Add the cooled pasta to the bowl with the veggies and cheese. This is where everything starts to come together.
Pour the Italian dressing evenly over the pasta salad. Toss everything gently to ensure every ingredient is coated nicely. Season with salt and pepper to taste, remembering that both cheeses and olives already add some saltiness.
Finish by garnishing with fresh basil just before serving. This adds a lovely pop of color and flavor to your salad.
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