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Zesty Italian Pasta Salad: The Ultimate Flavor Explosion for Your Table


  • Author: Hannah

Ingredients

  • – 12 oz (340g) rotini or bowtie pasta

  • – 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

  • – 1 cup cucumber, diced

  • – 1/2 cup sliced black olives

  • – 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper

  • – 1/2 cup pepperoni slices or salami, chopped (optional)

  • – 1 cup mozzarella cheese cubes

  • – 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped

  • – 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

  • – 1/2 cup Italian dressing (store-bought or homemade)

  • – 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar

  • – 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

  • – Salt and pepper, to taste


Instructions

  1. Cook Pasta:
    Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool.

  2. Combine Ingredients:
    In a large bowl, mix pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, black olives, red bell pepper, pepperoni (if using), mozzarella, red onion, and parsley.

  3. Make Dressing:
    In a small bowl, whisk together Italian dressing, red wine vinegar, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

  4. Toss Salad:
    Pour dressing over pasta mixture and toss to coat evenly.

  5. Chill & Serve:
    Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to let flavors meld. Garnish with extra parsley if desired.