Vibrant Spring Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing Recipe

There’s nothing quite like a vibrant bowl of Spring Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing to kick-start your taste buds and put a smile on your face. Picture this: colorful veggies dancing around al dente pasta, all tossed in a tangy Italian dressing that whispers sweet nothings of garlic and herbs. It’s like a party in your mouth, and everyone’s invited.

Every time I whip up this salad, I’m transported back to family gatherings where laughter mingles with the aroma of fresh basil and roasted peppers. This dish is perfect for picnics, barbecues, or just when you need a taste of sunshine on your plate. Trust me you’ll want to dive into this flavor explosion.

I still remember the first time I made this salad for my friends’ barbecue their eyes lit up as they took the first bite, asking for seconds (and thirds).

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Pasta: Opt for rotini or penne as they hold dressing beautifully and add fun twists in every bite.
• Cherry Tomatoes: Choose ripe, juicy cherry tomatoes for a sweet burst that complements the savory flavors.
• Cucumber: A crisp cucumber adds refreshing crunch pick firm ones without blemishes.
• Bell Peppers: Use vibrant red or yellow bell peppers for sweetness and color contrast.
• Red Onion: Slice thinly it adds sharpness that balances the dish beautifully.
• Italian Dressing: Homemade is best, but store-bought works too aim for a zesty blend packed with herbs.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese elevates flavors avoid pre-grated options for better texture.
• Olive Oil: Extra-virgin olive oil enhances depth drizzles over everything at the end provide richness.
• Fresh Basil or Parsley: Use these fragrant herbs as a finishing touch for added aroma and color.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Boil the Pasta: Start by boiling water in a large pot over high heat. Add salt generously like the ocean Toss in your pasta and cook until al dente based on package instructions.

Prepare Your Veggies: While pasta cooks, chop cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell peppers, and red onion into bite-sized pieces. The vibrant colors will brighten up your kitchen

Mix the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together Italian dressing ingredients: olive oil, vinegar, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper until combined. You can add more garlic if you’re feeling adventurous.

Toss It All Together: Drain pasta once cooked and rinse under cold water to stop cooking. In a large bowl, combine pasta with chopped veggies and pour on the dressing.

Add Final Touches: Gently toss everything together until well coated. Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the top along with chopped basil or parsley for an aromatic finish.

Enjoy your masterpiece as-is or chill it in the fridge before serving to let all those flavors mingle beautifully

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by boiling the pasta until al dente, then prepare the dressing while it cools. Chop veggies next for a fresh crunch.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out veggies based on what you have, or toss in some cheese for extra creaminess.

Storing & Reheating

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Enjoy cold no reheating needed

Sharing this Spring Pasta Salad with friends has turned into a family tradition, where laughter and compliments flow as freely as the pasta itself.

FAQ

What types of pasta work best in this salad?

Any short pasta like fusilli or penne holds dressing well and adds texture.

Can I make this Spring Pasta Salad ahead of time?

Absolutely It tastes even better after chilling in the fridge overnight.

What can I add for extra protein?

Grilled chicken, chickpeas, or mozzarella balls are great options to enhance this dish.

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Spring Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing

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• Author: Lena
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Spring Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing is a colorful and refreshing dish that brings vibrant flavors to your table. Packed with crisp veggies and tossed in a tangy Italian dressing, this salad is perfect for picnics, barbecues, or simply enjoying on a sunny day. It’s easy to make and can be customized based on your favorite ingredients, making it a go-to recipe for gatherings or meal prep. Dive into this delightful explosion of tastes that will leave everyone asking for more!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 8 oz rotini or penne pasta
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 medium cucumber, diced
• 1 cup bell peppers (red or yellow), chopped
• 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup Italian dressing (homemade or store-bought)
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
• 1/4 cup fresh basil or parsley, chopped

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Instructions

1. Boil water in a large pot; add salt and cook the pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water.
2. While the pasta cooks, chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell peppers, and red onion into bite-sized pieces.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the Italian dressing ingredients: olive oil, vinegar, minced garlic (optional), oregano, salt, and pepper.
4. In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta with chopped veggies and pour the dressing over the top. Toss gently until everything is well coated.
5. Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped herbs. Serve immediately or chill for an hour to enhance flavors.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 8g
• Cholesterol: 20mg