Ultimate Creamy Italian Pasta Salad
A delightful creamy Italian pasta salad bursting with flavor, perfect for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 ounces Rotini Pasta
- 1/2 cup Pepperoni, sliced
- 1 cup Fresh Veggies (bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, cucumber)
- 1 cup Italian Dressing
- 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese, grated (optional)
- 1/2 cup Black Olives (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil, add rotini pasta, and cook according to package instructions until al dente (about 8-10 minutes).
- Prepare the veggies: Chop bell peppers, halve cherry tomatoes, and slice cucumber into bite-sized pieces.
- Combine the ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine drained pasta, pepperoni slices, and chopped veggies.
- Add the dressing: Pour in Italian dressing and mix gently, adding reserved pasta water for desired creaminess.
- Finish with extras: Toss in grated parmesan and black olives, if using, then adjust seasoning.
- Chill and serve: Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
For varied flavors, try swapping in grilled chicken or shrimp, or using chickpea pasta for a vegan option.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: pasta salad, Italian salad, creamy pasta, summer recipes, picnic food
Find it online: https://mapleladle.com/creamy-italian-pasta-salad/