Bright swirls of rotini, jewel-toned veggies, and creamy mozzarella come together in this vibrant Italian Pasta Salad that’s as much a treat for the eyes as it is for the taste buds. Each forkful delivers a playful dance between tangy red wine vinaigrette, the sweet pop of cherry tomatoes, and the crunchy bite of cucumbers and bell peppers. There’s a relaxed, summery spirit in every mouthful—a perfect companion for backyard barbecues, beachside gatherings, or those busy weeknights when you want something fresh, colorful, and effortless. Whether you’re looking to brighten up your picnic spread or simply crave a cool, savory salad, this Italian-inspired dish has you covered.
I still remember the first time I tossed this salad together on a warm weekend afternoon: my kitchen windows were thrown open, laughter drifted in from friends on the patio, and the scent of fresh basil filled the air. In just 20 minutes of prep, a quick 10-minute simmer, and a 30-minute chill in the fridge, dinner was served—and it felt like a celebration. This beginner-friendly recipe clocks in at only 360 calories per serving, making it a guilt-free indulgence any day of the week. And the best part? It’s endlessly adaptable: add grilled chicken for protein, swap in artichoke hearts for extra tang, or sneak in some roasted red peppers to taste. So grab your favorite bowl and let’s dive into stacking up those beautiful layers of flavor!
KEY INGREDIENTS IN ITALIAN PASTA SALAD
Every ingredient in this pasta salad brings its own personality to the party, creating a harmonious symphony of taste, texture, and color. From the sturdy spirals of rotini that cradle every drop of dressing to the bright green ribbons of basil that perfume each bite, let’s break down what you need and why each component matters.
- Rotini pasta
The twisty corkscrew shape is ideal for holding onto the zesty vinaigrette and bits of veggie, ensuring you get flavor in every forkful. Its firm bite makes it perfect for chilling without turning mushy.
- Cherry tomatoes
Bursting with juicy sweetness and vibrant red hues, these little orbs add a fresh, fruity note that balances the saltier elements in the salad.
- Cucumbers
Crisp and hydrating, diced cucumber brings a light, cooling crunch that contrasts beautifully with the other veggies, keeping things bright and refreshing.
- Green and red bell peppers
These crunchy, colorful peppers provide a sweet, vegetal flavor and a satisfying snap. The mix of green and red also enhances the salad’s visual appeal.
- Red onion
Finely chopped for a subtle zing, red onion contributes a sharp, slightly sweet tang that cuts through the richness of cheese and oil.
- Black olives
Their briny, slightly fruity depth adds complexity, turning a simple salad into something reminiscent of a classic antipasto platter.
- Mozzarella balls
Creamy and mild, halved mozzarella pearls bring a tender, milky softness that pairs perfectly with the crisp veggies and vibrant dressing.
- Grated Parmesan cheese
A final shower of nutty, salty goodness that ties everything together, giving each bite an irresistible savory finish.
- Fresh basil leaves
Chopped basil infuses the salad with an herbal lift and peppery aroma, making it unmistakably Italian.
- Olive oil
The silky foundation of our dressing, providing richness and carrying the flavors of vinegar, herbs, and garlic.
- Red wine vinegar
Tangy and bright, this vinegar cuts through the oil’s richness, balancing the salad with a lively acidic kick.
- Italian seasoning
A fragrant blend of herbs—oregano, thyme, rosemary, and more—that delivers an instant burst of Mediterranean flavor.
- Garlic
Minced garlic adds a pungent warmth that lingers on the palate, giving the vinaigrette a pleasantly savory edge.
- Salt and pepper
Essential seasonings that sharpen and elevate the flavors of all the other ingredients when used to taste.
HOW TO MAKE ITALIAN PASTA SALAD
Let’s walk through the steps to bring this salad from kitchen counter to dining table. With clear instructions and a few simple techniques, you’ll have a colorful, flavorful dish ready to impress in under an hour.
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil and cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until it’s perfectly al dente. This ensures the pasta holds its shape and texture when chilled. Drain it in a colander, then rinse under cold running water to halt the cooking process and cool the pasta thoroughly. Set it aside to drain completely.
2. Grab a large bowl and combine the cooled pasta with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, red onion, black olives, and mozzarella balls. The spacious bowl gives you plenty of room to mix without spilling.
3. In a separate small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Italian seasoning, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until the dressing is smooth and emulsified. This step helps all the flavors marry perfectly.
4. Pour the dressing over the assembled pasta and veggies in the large bowl. Use gentle, sweeping motions to toss everything, making sure each piece is evenly coated.
5. Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped basil, then toss again very lightly to distribute these final touches without bruising the tender herbs.
6. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the pasta salad for at least 30 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to meld and the pasta to absorb the tangy dressing.
7. Before serving, give the salad one more gentle toss and adjust seasoning with extra salt and pepper if it needs a bit more punch.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR ITALIAN PASTA SALAD
When it comes to presentation and pairings, this pasta salad shines in so many ways. Whether you’re hosting an alfresco brunch, packing a lunchbox, or looking for a light dinner option, these serving ideas will help you showcase its vibrant colors and bold flavors.
- Serve in a chilled bowl lined with fresh basil leaves. The cool surface helps keep the salad crisp, while the basil “plate” underneath adds a fragrant touch to every serving.
- Pair alongside grilled chicken or fish fillets. The light, herby salad complements simply seasoned proteins, making a balanced, satisfying meal perfect for warmer months.
- Pack individual portions in mason jars for a portable picnic or office lunch. Layer pasta, veggies, and cheese at the bottom, then pour the dressing just before eating to keep everything fresh and prevent sogginess.
- Offer it as part of a buffet spread with cured meats, marinated artichokes, and crusty bread. The salad’s zesty brightness cuts through heavier antipasti items, providing a refreshing counterpoint.
HOW TO STORE ITALIAN PASTA SALAD
Proper storage is key to maintaining that fresh, crisp quality you love. Follow these simple tips to ensure your pasta salad stays bright, flavorful, and perfectly textured for days.
- Refrigerate in an airtight container. Transfer the salad to a sealable glass or plastic container immediately after resting. This keeps out excess air and locks in flavors. Consume within 3–4 days for the best taste.
- Store the dressing separately if you plan to keep leftovers longer. Packing the salad undressed helps preserve the crispness of the veggies and pasta. Add the vinaigrette just before serving to revive that bright, tangy finish.
- Use layered storage for meal prep. If you’re prepping several portions, layer pasta and veggies in individual containers, then top with cheese and herbs. Keep lids snug and refrigerate; toss in dressing at mealtime.
- Refresh before serving. After a day or two, you may notice some separation or slight softening. Simply give the salad a gentle stir, taste, and adjust with a splash more vinegar or a pinch of salt to bring it back to life.
CONCLUSION
I hope this journey through the world of colorful rotini, crisp veggies, and tangy Italian dressing has you as excited as I am to give this pasta salad a try. From its beginner-friendly steps—just 20 minutes of prep, 10 minutes of cooking, and a 30-minute chill—to the endless ways you can customize it, this recipe truly shines for gatherings, quick lunches, or a light dinner. You’ve got everything you need right here, so feel free to print out the recipe, save it in your digital cookbook, or tuck it into your recipe binder for easy access whenever inspiration strikes. And yes, there’s a handy FAQ section below to answer any lingering questions you might have!
If you give this salad a whirl, I’d love to hear how it turns out. Did you swap in grilled chicken for a protein boost? Add roasted red peppers for extra color? Or maybe you discovered a new favorite twist of your own. Drop a comment, ask a question, or share your feedback—I’m here to help every step of the way. Your kitchen adventures and culinary experiments are what make recipes like this come alive, so let’s keep the conversation going. Buon appetito!
Italian Pasta Salad
Description
This Italian pasta salad layers al dente rotini with juicy cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, olives, and mozzarella, all drizzled in a garlic-kissed red wine vinaigrette. Fresh basil and Parmesan tie it together for a refreshing bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool. Set aside to drain completely.
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In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, red onion, olives, and mozzarella balls.
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In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Italian seasoning, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
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Pour the dressing over the pasta salad ingredients in the large bowl. Toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly with the dressing.
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Add the grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil to the salad. Toss again lightly to distribute everything evenly.
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Refrigerate the pasta salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
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Before serving, give the salad a gentle toss, and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary.
Note
- This pasta salad can be made a day in advance, which enhances its flavors.
- Feel free to add more vegetables such as artichoke hearts or roasted red peppers.
- For a protein boost, add grilled chicken or salami slices.
- This salad can be served as a side dish or a light meal on its own.
- Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving to ensure balanced flavors.
