This creamy Italian pasta salad is a colorful mix of pasta, crunchy veggies, and zesty Italian dressing, making it a perfect side dish or lunch option!
I love how easy it is to whip up. Just cook the pasta, toss in your favorite veggies, and mix with the dressing—no fuss and full of flavor! Plus, it’s great for picnics!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tri-color rotini pasta: This pasta adds a fun pop of color and holds onto the dressing well. If you don’t have rotini, feel free to use penne or fusilli. Both work great in this salad!
Black olives: They offer a nice briny flavor. If you’re not a fan of olives, you can skip them or substitute with cherry tomatoes for a burst of freshness.
Red bell pepper: This adds crunch and sweetness. You could use yellow or orange bell peppers too, or even diced cucumber for a different texture.
mozzarella cheese: The creamy, mild flavor of mozzarella is perfect here. If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, you can use low-fat mozzarella, or even substitute with feta for some tang.
Pepperoni: For a meatier salad, keep the pepperoni. If you want a healthier option, replace it with diced turkey or chicken. You can also use salami for a different twist.
Creamy Italian dressing: You can use store-bought or homemade. If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, make a simple vinaigrette using olive oil, vinegar, and herbs.
How Can I Make Sure My Pasta Salad Holds Its Flavor?
The key to a tasty pasta salad lies in how you prepare the pasta and dress it. Here are some important tips:
- Cook the pasta al dente—this means it should be tender but still firm. This helps prevent mushy pasta in your salad.
- Rinse the pasta under cold water right after draining. This stops the cooking process and keeps it from sticking together.
- Don’t skip the chilling step! Letting it sit in the fridge for at least an hour allows all the flavors to blend beautifully.
- Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning. Sometimes a little extra salt or a splash of vinegar can brighten the flavors.
How to Make Easy Creamy Italian Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz tri-color rotini pasta
- 1 cup black olives, sliced
- 1 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, cubed
- 1/2 cup pepperoni slices, halved or quartered
- 1/2 cup Italian dressing (creamy style or regular + a bit of mayo or sour cream)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare. Plus, you’ll want to let it chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour to let all the flavors blend together. So plan for a little over 1 hour for the whole process!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Add the tri-color rotini pasta and cook according to the package directions until it’s al dente (firm to the bite). Once it’s cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. This also cools it down, so it’s perfect for the salad!
2. Mix in the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with sliced black olives, diced red bell pepper, cubed mozzarella cheese, and halved pepperoni slices. Make sure all the ingredients are evenly distributed so everyone gets a little bit of everything in their serving!
3. Add the Dressing:
Now it’s time for the delicious part! Pour in the creamy Italian dressing. Whether you’re using store-bought or homemade, it’ll add a lovely flavor to the salad. Toss everything gently until all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
4. Season to Taste:
Take a moment to taste your pasta salad! Add salt and pepper according to your preference. This step is crucial to enhance the flavors. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also add a dash of Italian seasoning for an extra kick!
5. Garnish and Chill:
Sprinkle the chopped fresh basil or parsley over the top of your pasta salad for a fresh and colorful finish. Then, cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This chilling time allows all the flavors to meld beautifully.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
After chilling, your creamy Italian pasta salad is ready to serve! Dish it out as a side for your next barbecue or enjoy it as a light meal. It’s delicious, versatile, and perfect for sharing!
With its vibrant colors and delightful flavors, this Easy Creamy Italian Pasta Salad is sure to be a hit at any gathering. Enjoy making and sharing this scrumptious dish!
Can I Use Whole Wheat Pasta Instead?
Yes! Whole wheat pasta is a great alternative and adds extra fiber. Just be aware that it may slightly change the texture and flavor of the dish, but it’ll still be delicious!
How Long Does This Pasta Salad Last in the Fridge?
This creamy Italian pasta salad will keep well in the fridge for about 3 to 5 days in an airtight container. Just give it a stir before serving, as the dressing may thicken over time.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize your salad by adding veggies like cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, spinach, or even artichokes. Just make sure to adjust the dressing accordingly if you’re adding a lot!
Is This Recipe Easy to Double or Half?
Yes! This recipe is very flexible. If you want to make a larger batch for a gathering, just double the ingredients. Conversely, if you need a smaller portion, halve everything without worrying about it affecting the taste!
