– **Title**: Tri Color Pasta Salad
– **Ingredients**:
– 8 ounces tri-color rotini pasta
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup cucumber, diced
– 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
– 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– **Instructions**:
1. Cook the tri-color rotini pasta according to package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, black olives, red onion, feta cheese, and fresh basil.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well blended.
4. Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
6. Serve chilled or at room temperature and enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tri-Color Rotini Pasta: This pasta adds fun color and shape to the salad. You can swap it for any short pasta like fusilli or bowtie if needed. Just make sure it’s a shape that holds the dressing well!
Black Olives: Sliced black olives bring a briny flavor that balances the sweetness of the veggies. If you’re not an olive fan, consider using chopped artichokes or sun-dried tomatoes for a different taste.
Mozzarella Balls: The creamy mozzarella adds a lovely texture. If you can’t find bocconcini, you can use cubed mozzarella or even feta for a tangy twist.
Cherry Tomatoes: These are juicy and sweet. If they’re out of season, replace them with diced regular tomatoes, or even a handful of grape tomatoes will work.
Bell Pepper: Red or yellow peppers add color and crunch. Feel free to use green peppers or even diced cucumber if you prefer something milder.
Italian Dressing: Store-bought is quick and easy, but homemade dressing with olive oil, vinegar, and herbs can add a fresh touch. Try using balsamic vinaigrette for a different flavor profile.
How Do I Cook Pasta Perfectly for a Salad?
Cooking pasta for salad can be different from regular boiling. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Start with a large pot of salted water – the more salt, the better the pasta flavor.
- Cook the tri-color rotini according to package instructions until al dente; it should be firm to the bite.
- Drain the pasta and quickly rinse it under cold water to stop cooking and cool it down for the salad.
- Make sure to shake off excess water. Too much moisture can dilute the dressing!
Get this step right, and your salad will have the right texture and taste! Enjoy your prep!
How to Make Tri Color Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Vegetables:
- 8 oz tri-color rotini pasta
- 1 cup sliced black olives
- 1 cup mozzarella balls (bocconcini), halved
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup bell pepper (preferably red or yellow), diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
Dressing and Seasoning:
- 1 cup Italian dressing (store-bought or homemade)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Tri Color Pasta Salad takes about 15 minutes to prep and 30 minutes to chill. In total, you’re looking at about 45 minutes before you can serve this dish. It’s a great make-ahead option for parties or quick meals!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling a pot of water according to the package instructions. Add the tri-color rotini pasta and cook until it’s al dente. This usually takes about 7-9 minutes. Once the pasta is cooked, drain it in a colander and rinse under cold water to cool it down. This stops the cooking process and keeps the pasta from getting mushy.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with the sliced black olives, halved mozzarella balls, halved cherry tomatoes, diced bell pepper, and finely chopped red onion. Stir gently to mix everything together without breaking the mozzarella balls.
3. Add the Dressing:
Drizzle the Italian dressing over the pasta mixture. Using a spoon or spatula, gently toss everything together until all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing. This will help bring all the flavors together.
4. Season and Chill:
Add salt and pepper to taste, and feel free to adjust the amount of dressing based on your preference. Next, cover the salad with plastic wrap or a lid, and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time allows all those yummy flavors to meld together.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to serve, remove the salad from the fridge. Give it another gentle toss, check the seasoning, and adjust if necessary. If you like, garnish your salad with fresh basil leaves for a vibrant finish. Enjoy your refreshing Tri Color Pasta Salad!
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! If you can’t find tri-color rotini, feel free to swap it out for other pasta shapes like penne, farfalle, or even whole wheat pasta. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary, so be sure to check the package instructions.
What Can I Substitute for Italian Dressing?
If you prefer to make your own dressing, a mix of olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper works great! Just combine these ingredients and adjust to taste for a fresh alternative.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Pasta Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just note that the pasta might absorb some of the dressing, so you might want to add a little more dressing before serving to refresh the flavors!
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
You can get creative with your veggies! Consider adding cucumbers, zucchini, or even some spinach for extra crunch and nutrition. Just make sure to chop everything into bite-sized pieces for the best texture.
