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+ servings
California Pasta Salad

California Pasta Salad Bliss - Colorful, Crunchy, and Easy!

This California Pasta Salad features a vibrant mix of vegetables and tastes deliciously refreshing, making it a perfect dish for hot summer days.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 8 oz Rotini Pasta Opt for gluten-free pasta if needed.
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes Substitute with diced bell peppers for a different flavor profile.
  • 1 cup Cucumber Consider swapping in zucchini for an extra crunch.
  • 1/4 cup Red Onion Green onions can be used for a milder taste.
  • 1/2 cup Black Olives Green olives make a great alternative.
  • 1 cup Bell Pepper Roasted vegetables provide a seasonal twist.
  • 1 cup Sharp Cheddar Cheese Use vegan cheese for a dairy-free option.
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley Replace with basil for a herbaceous variation.
For the Dressing
  • 1/2 cup Italian Salad Dressing Homemade dressing can elevate the freshness.
  • Salt To taste, enhancing overall flavor.
  • Pepper To taste, enhancing overall flavor.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Spatula

Method
 

Cooking Steps
  1. Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water over high heat. Once boiling, add the rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
  2. While the pasta cools, chop your fresh vegetables: dice the cucumber, halve the cherry tomatoes, and slice the red onion into thin crescents.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled rotini pasta with the prepared vegetables: cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, black olives, and bell pepper.
  4. Pour a generous amount of Italian salad dressing over the pasta mixture and gently toss until well-coated.
  5. Taste and season with salt and pepper as desired, adjusting to your preference.
  6. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  7. Serve in a large bowl or in individual portions, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 10gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 1mg

Notes

This salad is perfect for meal prep and can be customized with different proteins or dressings for added flavor.

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