Creamy Italian pasta salad is the perfect dish for any gathering, whether it’s a summer barbecue, a potluck, or just a refreshing meal at home. This pasta salad combines tender pasta with creamy Italian dressing, crisp vegetables and flavorful Italian seasonings. It’s a versatile and colorful dish, packed with texture and flavor from crunchy bell peppers, juicy tomatoes, zesty olives, and tangy Parmesan. The creamy dressing ties everything together for a satisfying and vibrant side dish that pairs well with grilled meat, sandwiches or can even be enjoyed as a light main course.
INGREDIENTS:
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? 12 oz rotini or any pasta of your choice
? 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
? 1 cup cucumber, diced
? 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
? 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
? 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
? 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
? 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
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FOR THE CREAMY DRESSING:
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? 1/2 cup mayonnaise
? 1/4 cup sour cream
? 2 tbsp olive oil
? 2 tbsp white wine vinegar
? 1 tsp Italian seasoning
? 1/2 tsp garlic powder
? 1/2 tsp onion powder
? Salt and pepper, to taste
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INSTRUCTIONS:
list of 5 items
1. Cook the pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold
water to cool it down. Set aside.
2. Prepare the vegetables: While the pasta is cooking, chop the tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, olives, and red onion. Set aside.
3. Make the dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, olive oil, white wine vinegar, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion
powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
4. Assemble the salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chopped vegetables, and Parmesan cheese. Pour the dressing over the salad and
toss until everything is evenly coated.
5. Chill and serve: Cover the pasta salad and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld. Before serving, sprinkle with fresh parsley
for a bright finish.
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Enjoy this creamy, flavorful salad as a side or on its own!
