Description
Classic pasta salad is the perfect dish for any occasion, blending vibrant flavors and textures into a delightful meal that will impress your guests. This easy-to-make recipe features tri-color rotini pasta, fresh vegetables, and a zesty homemade vinaigrette that creates a burst of flavor in every bite. Ideal for barbecues, picnics, or family gatherings, this versatile salad can be served as a refreshing side or a satisfying main course. Plus, it’s make-ahead friendly—allowing the flavors to meld beautifully in the fridge. With 24 servings, it’s guaranteed to please even the largest crowds!
Ingredients
- 24 ounces tri-color rotini pasta
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 12 ounces sliced pepperoni
- 1 red onion (diced)
- 1 green bell pepper (diced)
- 16 ounces mozzarella cheese (cubed)
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 8 ounces olives (sliced)
- 1 1/2 cups olive oil
- 1/2 cup red wine vinegar
- 2 tablespoons Italian seasoning
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Cook tri-color rotini in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water.
- In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta with cherry tomatoes, pepperoni, onion, bell pepper, mozzarella cheese, parmesan cheese, and olives.
- Whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes in a separate bowl.
- Pour the vinaigrette over the pasta salad mixture and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 30mg