Best 3 Quick Italian Pasta Salad Recipes
Indulge in a culinary journey to the heart of Italy with our carefully curated collection of quick and flavorful pasta salad recipes. Bursting with vibrant colors, textures, and authentic Italian flavors, these delightful dishes are perfect for picnics, potlucks, or easy weeknight dinners. From classic Caprese pasta salad with juicy tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil, to a refreshing Mediterranean pasta salad loaded with crisp cucumbers, tangy olives, and zesty feta cheese, our recipes offer a symphony of flavors to tantalize your taste buds. Enjoy the vibrant flavors of sun-kissed tomatoes, the creamy richness of mozzarella, and the aromatic freshness of basil in our classic Caprese pasta salad. Experience the Mediterranean's charm with our vibrant salad featuring crisp cucumbers, tangy olives, and savory feta cheese. And for a taste of the Tuscan countryside, try our hearty Tuscan pasta salad with tender tortellini, grilled chicken, and a zesty vinaigrette. Each recipe is a culinary adventure, offering a unique blend of ingredients that will transport you to the heart of Italy. Get ready to embark on a delicious journey with our quick and flavorful Italian pasta salad recipes!
Here are our top 3 tried and tested recipes!
QUICK ITALIAN PASTA SALAD
A quick and flavorful pasta salad with salami and bell peppers.
Provided by Trish
Categories Salad 100+ Pasta Salad Recipes Rotini Pasta Salad Recipes
Time 25m
Yield 12
Number Of Ingredients 10
Steps:
- Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil; cook rotini at a boil until tender yet firm to the bite, about 8 minutes; drain and rinse with cold water until cool.
- Combine pasta, salami, green bell pepper, red bell pepper, onion, salad dressing, olives, and mozzarella cheese in a large bowl. Mix dry salad dressing into pasta; sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 370.9 calories, Carbohydrate 29.2 g, Cholesterol 46 mg, Fat 21 g, Fiber 1.6 g, Protein 15.2 g, SaturatedFat 7.4 g, Sodium 1893.1 mg, Sugar 5.4 g
QUICK ITALIAN PASTA SALAD
I came up with this recipe after making the boxed kind for many years and I would doctor it up with fresh veggies, so I thought why not just make my own! It's super quick and easy and you can add as much or as many veggies that you like or use your own favorite dressing.
Provided by Meekocu2
Categories European
Time 38m
Yield 8 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 10
Steps:
- Cook pasta according to package directions, about 8 minutes. Drain and rinse with cold water. Set aside to drain well.
- Cut cucumber, bell pepper, and onion into bite sized pieces. Place into the bowl you will be using for the salad.
- Cut tomatoes in half and and in half again and deseed. Cut into bite sized pieces. Add to the bowl.
- Cut stem and bottom off zucchini. Shred zucchini and add to the other vegetables.
- Make sure the pasta is very well drained, and add to the bowl.
- Pour salad dressing over pasta and vegetables. Use as little or as much as you like. I think it needs quite a bit since the pasta will soak some up.
- Add the italian seasoning.
- Mix well and chill at least 4 to 6 hours or over night for best flavors. Stirring occasionally.
- To serve top with diced cheese and pepperoni if using.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 203, Fat 1.3, SaturatedFat 0.3, Cholesterol 1.1, Sodium 638.6, Carbohydrate 40.9, Fiber 2.7, Sugar 8.3, Protein 7
QUICK ITALIAN PASTA SALAD
Steps:
- Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil; cook rotini at a boil until tender yet firm to the bite, about 8 minutes; drain and rinse with cold water until cool.
- Combine pasta, salami, green bell pepper, red bell pepper, onion, salad dressing, olives, and mozzarella cheese in a large bowl.
- Mix dry salad dressing into pasta; sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
Tips:
- Use high-quality pasta: The type of pasta you use will make a big difference in the final dish. Look for a high-quality pasta that is made with durum wheat and has a slightly firm texture.
- Cook the pasta al dente: Al dente means "to the tooth" in Italian, and it refers to the perfect cooking stage for pasta. The pasta should be cooked through but still have a slight bite to it.
- Don't overdress the pasta: A light dressing is all you need to enhance the flavors of the pasta and vegetables. Too much dressing will weigh down the dish and make it greasy.
- Use fresh, seasonal vegetables: Fresh vegetables will give your pasta salad the best flavor and texture. If you can, try to use vegetables that are in season.
- Add some protein: If you want to make your pasta salad a more complete meal, you can add some protein, such as grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
- Serve the pasta salad chilled: Pasta salad is best served chilled, so make sure to refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Conclusion:
With its vibrant colors, fresh flavors, and endless variations, Italian pasta salad is a summertime staple that is sure to please everyone at your next gathering. So next time you're looking for a light and refreshing meal, give this classic Italian dish a try. You won't be disappointed!
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