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Rotini Pasta Salad Recipe

A perfect blend of fresh ingredients that creates a symphony of flavors and textures. Crisp cucumbers, juicy cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced red onions, and crunchy bell peppers bring a burst of freshness to each bite. The zesty dressing, made with a balance of tangy vinegar, fragrant herbs, and a touch of sweetness, complements the vegetables perfectly.

Not only is this Rotini Pasta Salad incredibly tasty, but it’s also very versatile. Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or even vegetarian alternatives like chickpeas or tofu for a complete and satisfying meal. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue, heading to a potluck, or simply want a light and easy lunch, this recipe is a winner.

Try our Rotini Pasta Salad and delight in a dish that is vibrant, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion.

Rotini Pasta Salad

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Prep Time 5

Cook Time 15

Total Time 25

Course Salad, Side Dish

Cuisine American

Servings People

Calories 380 kcal

Kitchen equipment list

1 Mixing bowl

Ingredients

▢ Rotini Pasta: Start with 8 ounces (227 grams) of rotini pasta. This spiral-shaped pasta is perfect for holding the dressing and capturing all the flavors of the salad.
▢ Cucumbers: You'll need 2 medium-sized cucumbers, thinly sliced. Cucumbers add a refreshing crunch to the salad and are packed with hydration.
▢ Cherry Tomatoes: Use 1 pint (about 2 cups) of cherry tomatoes, halved. Cherry tomatoes are juicy and sweet, adding a burst of flavor to the salad.
▢ Red Onion: Thinly slice 1 small red onion. The mild sharpness of red onions adds a nice contrast to the other ingredients.
▢ Bell Peppers: Choose 1 red bell pepper and 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced. The vibrant colors of bell peppers not only make the salad visually appealing but also provide a crisp texture.
▢ Black Olives: Add 1/2 cup of sliced black olives for a briny and savory element.
▢ Feta Cheese: Crumble 1/2 cup of feta cheese over the salad for a creamy and tangy flavor.
▢ Fresh Herbs: Finely chop a handful of fresh herbs such as parsley, basil, or dill. Fresh herbs add a burst of freshness and aroma to the salad.
▢ Dressing: For the dressing, you'll need: - 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil - 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar - 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard - 1 teaspoon honey - Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Cook the rotini pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, red onion, bell peppers, black olives, and crumbled feta cheese.
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss gently until everything is well coated.
Add the cooked and cooled rotini pasta to the bowl and gently toss to combine all the ingredients.
Sprinkle the chopped fresh herbs over the salad and give it a final toss.
Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. You can add more salt, pepper, or a splash of vinegar if desired.
Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
Before serving, give the salad a quick toss to redistribute the dressing and garnish with additional fresh herbs if desired.

❋ Kitchen Chaos Unlocked Tips

Tips for making the perfect Rotini Pasta Salad

Cook the rotini pasta al dente: Overcooking the pasta will result in a mushy salad. Follow the cooking instructions on the package and test the pasta for doneness. It should have a slight bite to it.
Use fresh and ripe vegetables: The quality of the vegetables greatly affects the taste and texture of the salad. Choose firm cucumbers, plump cherry tomatoes, and vibrant bell peppers.
Allow the salad to chill: Refrigerating the salad for at least 1 hour allows the flavors to develop and the dressing to penetrate the pasta and vegetables.
Customize the add-ins: While the recipe provides a delicious base, feel free to add your favorite ingredients. Grilled chicken, shrimp, chickpeas, or tofu are great options for a protein-packed salad.

Nutrition

Serving: 227 gCalories: 380 kcalCarbohydrates: 32 gProtein: 7 gFat: 25 g

Keyword Pasta Salad, Rotini

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Variations and add-ins for Rotini Pasta Salad

Mediterranean Style: Add some artichoke hearts, Kalamata olives, and sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean twist.
Caprese Salad: Add mozzarella cheese and fresh basil leaves for an Italian-inspired Caprese Pasta Salad.
Mexican Fiesta: Mix in some black beans, corn kernels, avocado, and a squeeze of lime juice for a Mexican-inspired pasta salad.
Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapenos or crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy version of the salad.

Serving suggestions for Rotini Pasta Salad

Serve the Rotini Pasta Salad as a side dish at your next BBQ, picnic, or potluck. It pairs well with grilled meats and seafood.
Enjoy it as a light lunch or dinner on its own. The combination of pasta, vegetables, and dressing makes it a satisfying and nutritious meal.
Pack it for work or school lunches. The salad stays fresh and flavorful, making it a convenient and healthy option.

Health benefits of Rotini Pasta Salad

Rotini Pasta Salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits:

Rotini pasta is a good source of carbohydrates and provides energy for the body.
Vegetables like cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, and red onions are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support overall health.
Olive oil, a key ingredient in the dressing, is a healthy fat that can reduce the risk of heart disease.
Fresh herbs like parsley, basil, and dill are nutrient-dense and have anti-inflammatory properties.

Frequently asked questions about Rotini Pasta Salad

Q: Can I make the salad ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can make the Rotini Pasta Salad a day in advance. Just keep it refrigerated until ready to serve.

Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?

A: Absolutely! While rotini pasta works well in this recipe, you can substitute it with other short pasta shapes like penne or fusilli.

Q: Can I make the salad without feta cheese?

A: Yes, if you prefer a dairy-free or lactose-free option, you can omit the feta cheese or substitute it with a non-dairy alternative.

Q: How long does the salad last in the refrigerator?

A: The Rotini Pasta Salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Just make sure to keep it properly covered.

Conclusion and final thoughts on Rotini Pasta Salad

Our Rotini Pasta Salad recipe is a delightful combination of fresh vegetables, al dente pasta, and a zesty dressing. It’s a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a side or a complete meal. The vibrant colors, flavors, and textures make it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

So, the next time you’re looking for a refreshing and delicious pasta salad recipe, give our Rotini Pasta Salad a try. It’s a simple yet satisfying dish that will impress your taste buds and leave you craving for more!