Print

Zesty Italian Pasta Salad

A fresh and easy dish mixing cooked pasta with tomatoes, cucumber, olives, red onion, and mozzarella, dressed in a simple Italian vinaigrette.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz pasta (fusilli or penne)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup cucumber, diced
  • 1/2 cup red onion, diced
  • 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
  • 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, cubed
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta until tender, then drain and rinse with cold water to cool it quickly.
  2. Chop the vegetables and cube the mozzarella.
  3. Mix the pasta, vegetables, cheese, and parsley in a large bowl.
  4. Whisk the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
  5. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is coated.
  6. Chill for at least 30 minutes or serve right away at room temperature.

Notes

Serve it cold or at room temperature. Pairs well with grilled chicken, fish, or a simple green salad.

Nutrition

Keywords: pasta salad, Italian salad, summer salad, quick salad, picnic food