Italian Pasta Salad (Insalata di Pasta)
This Italian Pasta Salad is a colorful and flavorful dish, perfect for summer gatherings or as a side dish. Packed with fresh vegetables, olives, and Italian dressing, it’s a quick, easy, and refreshing recipe.
Ingredients:
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2 cups of cooked pasta (penne or rotini)
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1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
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1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
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1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
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1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
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1/4 cup cucumber, diced
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1/4 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
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2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
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1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
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1 teaspoon dried oregano
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
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In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, red bell pepper, red onion, olives, cucumber, and mozzarella balls.
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In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
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Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently to combine.
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Garnish with fresh basil leaves.
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Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
Cooking Tips:
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To make this salad ahead of time, prepare everything and store the dressing separately. Toss everything together just before serving.
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You can customize the salad by adding other vegetables like cucumbers, artichokes, or even grilled chicken.
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For a stronger flavor, let the salad sit in the fridge for a few hours or overnight.
Nutrition Facts (per serving):
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Calories: 220 kcal
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Protein: 7g
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Carbohydrates: 27g
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Fat: 12g
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Fiber: 3g
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Sugar: 4g
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