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Tri Color Rotini Pasta Salad

Vibrant Tri Color Rotini Pasta Salad for Perfect Picnics

This Tri Color Rotini Pasta Salad is a colorful and flavorful dish perfect for picnics and gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: PASTA
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 16 ounces tri-color rotini pasta
For the Salad
  • 6 ounces hard salami substitute with turkey or chicken if preferred
  • 1 pint grape tomatoes sweet gems that add color
  • 1/2 cup black olives impart a rich, salty depth
  • 1 large green bell pepper or red/yellow for added color
  • 1/2 medium red onion soak in cold water to mellow intensity
  • 8 ounces fresh mozzarella pearls or feta for a tangy twist
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese or vegan cheese for plant-based option
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley or basil for additional depth
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
For the Dressing
  • 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil use high-quality for best flavor
  • 1/4 cup red wine vinegar or balsamic for a sweeter profile
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice bottled is a decent substitute
  • 2 cloves minced garlic or roasted for a sweeter flavor
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder omit if preferred
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano thyme can work well too
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil optional if only using fresh
  • 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes adjust for spice preference
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic salt or regular salt with garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground pepper freshly cracked for best taste

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • large bowl
  • whisk

Method
 

Steps
  1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add the tri-color rotini pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside to cool.
  2. Mix the salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta with the hard salami, grape tomatoes, black olives, chopped green bell pepper, red onion, mozzarella pearls, grated Parmesan, parsley, and basil. Stir gently to blend all the ingredients together.
  3. Whisk the dressing: In a separate bowl, combine olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, minced garlic, garlic powder, oregano, dried basil, crushed red pepper flakes, garlic salt, and ground pepper. Whisk until well blended.
  4. Combine everything: Pour the dressing over the pasta salad mixture. Toss gently until all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
  5. Serve: Enjoy the pasta salad immediately, or refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 32gProtein: 12gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 4gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 10mg

Notes

For a refreshing touch, serve chilled on warm days!

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