pasta salad using italian dressing recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
pasta salad using italian dressing recipe
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The Best pasta salad using italian dressing recipe

I’ve always been a fan of pasta salads, and this Italian dressing recipe is a staple in my household. It’s easy to make, delicious, and perfect for any occasion.

My kids love helping me prepare the ingredients, and they always get excited when they see the finished product. I like that this recipe is light and refreshing, making it ideal for hot summer days or as a side dish for family gatherings.

The best part? It’s incredibly healthy, with a great balance of protein, complex carbs, and veggies.

When I’m short on time, I can easily whip up a batch of this salad in under 30 minutes. I’ve made this recipe countless times, and it never fails to impress.

Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or dinner idea, or simply want to add some variety to your meal routine, this pasta salad using Italian dressing is an excellent choice.

Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing

Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing

4.6 from 1515 votes

A refreshing pasta salad tossed with a tangy Italian dressing, featuring cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta cheese. This dish is perfect for summer picnics or as a light meal.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time10 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time30 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Pasta Salad

8 oz pasta shapes
1 cup cherry tomatoes
1 cucumber
1/2 red onion
1/2 cup pitted Kalamata olives
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

For the Italian Dressing

1/4 cup olive oil
2 tbsp red wine vinegar
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 clove garlic
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper

👨‍🍳Directions

1Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat.
2Add pasta and cook until al dente, stirring occasionally, for about 8-10 minutes.
3The pasta should be tender but firm to the bite.
4Drain the pasta in a colander and rinse under cold water to cool it down quickly.
5Transfer the pasta to a large mixing bowl.
6While the pasta is cooking, prepare the vegetables.
7Cut the tomatoes in half, dice the cucumber, and finely chop the red onion.
8Place them into a bowl.
9Add the olives and feta cheese.
Set aside.
10In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper.
11This will create the Italian dressing.
12Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
13Pour the Italian dressing over the pasta and toss gently to coat evenly.
14Add the vegetable mixture to the pasta and toss again until well combined.
15Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley.
16Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
17This step is crucial for the best taste.
18Serve chilled and enjoy.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Colander
Mixing bowl
Whisk

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 4g❤️Cholesterol: 15mg🧂Sodium: 750mg🌾Total Carbs: 38g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 4g🥩Protein: 8g

📝Notes

Tips: You can add grilled chicken or shrimp to make it a more substantial meal. For a creamier dressing, add a tablespoon of mayonnaise.

Watch Video Of How Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing Works

This pasta salad using Italian dressing is a fantastic addition to any meal or gathering. Not only is it easy to prepare and customize, but it’s also packed with nutrients and tastes amazing.

Whether you’re serving it as a main course or side dish, this recipe is sure to please even the pickiest eaters. For an added touch of convenience, consider making a double batch and freezing some for later use.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing

What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

I prefer using bow-tie or penne pasta for this salad, as their shapes hold onto the dressing nicely. However, you can use any short pasta shape you like.

Can I substitute the Italian dressing with another type?

While you can experiment with different dressings, keep in mind that the flavor profile will change significantly. If you want to stay true to the original taste, stick with Italian dressing.

How do I store leftover pasta salad?

Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for later use.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Simply swap out the Parmesan cheese for a vegan alternative and use a plant-based Italian dressing.

What are some variations I can try?

Consider adding grilled chicken, diced bell peppers, or chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil to give the salad an extra boost of flavor.

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