Italian Pasta Salad with Fresh Vegetables, Mozzarella, and Dressing Recipe
If you love meals that burst with color, texture, and vibrant flavors, this Italian Pasta Salad with Fresh Vegetables, Mozzarella, and Dressing Recipe is an absolute must-try. It’s a harmonious mix of tender rotini pasta, juicy cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and the creamy delight of fresh mozzarella, all brought together by a zesty homemade dressing. Whether you’re planning a picnic, a family dinner, or just craving something fresh and satisfying, this salad delivers every single time with its irresistible combination of bright veggies and savory notes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Italian Pasta Salad with Fresh Vegetables, Mozzarella, and Dressing Recipe lies in using simple, fresh ingredients that each play a vital role in balancing taste, texture, and color. From the chewy rotini pasta to the crunchy bell peppers and the richness of mozzarella pearls, every component elevates the salad to a delightful medley of flavors.
- 12 oz rotini pasta: Perfectly shaped to hold the dressing and mix well with the veggies.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Adds juicy bursts of sweetness and vibrant red color.
- 1 cup cucumber, diced: Provides a cool, crisp crunch to contrast the softer elements.
- ½ cup red bell pepper, diced: Offers a mild sweetness and beautiful red hue.
- ½ cup yellow bell pepper, diced: Brightens the salad with a splash of sunny yellow and sweet flavor.
- ÂĽ cup red onion, finely chopped: Brings a gentle bite and lovely purple color.
- ½ cup black olives, sliced: Gives a salty, briny punch to complement the fresh vegetables.
- ½ cup mozzarella pearls (or diced fresh mozzarella): Creamy and mild, adding softness and richness.
- ÂĽ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds depth with its nutty, salty complexity.
- ½ cup salami, diced (optional): Optional but adds a savory, meaty element for extra flavor.
- ÂĽ cup fresh basil, chopped: A burst of herbal aroma and freshness.
- â…“ cup olive oil: The base of the dressing, bringing smoothness and fruity notes.
- 3 tbsp red wine vinegar: Provides acidity to brighten the entire salad.
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard: Adds subtle tang and helps emulsify the dressing.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Gives a savory, aromatic depth.
- 1 tsp dried oregano: Classic Italian herb that ties the flavors together.
- ½ tsp salt: Enhances all the natural flavors without overpowering.
- ½ tsp black pepper: Adds a mild heat and a little kick.
How to Make Italian Pasta Salad with Fresh Vegetables, Mozzarella, and Dressing Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling the rotini pasta according to the package instructions until it reaches that perfect al dente texture—firm to the bite but not hard. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it well under cold water. This stops the cooking process and cools it down so it won’t get soggy when combined with the other ingredients.
Step 2: Mix the Salad
Grab a large mixing bowl and bring together the beautifully prepped vegetables—cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red and yellow bell peppers, red onion, and black olives. Add the mozzarella pearls and Parmesan cheese, followed by the diced salami if you’re using it. Give everything a gentle toss to evenly distribute all these vibrant components before adding your dressing.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. This simple dressing is the secret behind the refreshing and tangy goodness of the salad, perfectly coating each bite with just the right balance of acidity, spice, and richness.
Step 4: Combine and Chill
Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss everything together until every forkful is coated in flavor. Sprinkle the chopped fresh basil on top for an herbal freshness, then pop the salad into the fridge to chill for at least 30 minutes. This resting time lets the flavors meld beautifully, making the salad even more delicious when served.
How to Serve Italian Pasta Salad with Fresh Vegetables, Mozzarella, and Dressing Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a few extra garnishes can take this pasta salad from great to unforgettable. Fresh basil leaves on top not only look stunning but also add a burst of aromatic freshness. You might also like to sprinkle a little more grated Parmesan before serving or add a few cracked black pepper flakes for visual appeal and an extra zing.
Side Dishes
This Italian Pasta Salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, crusty garlic bread, or a simple green salad for a light yet satisfying meal. Its bright, fresh flavors also complement heavier dishes like roasted meats or seafood, making it a versatile side dish perfect for all types of gatherings.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to wow your guests visually? Serve the pasta salad in a large rustic wooden bowl for a casual, family-style vibe, or spoon it into individual clear glass jars for an elegant, portable option at picnics and parties. You can also hollow out tomatoes or bell peppers and use them as edible bowls to elevate the presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This pasta salad keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent the salad from absorbing other fridge odors. The flavors often deepen over time, making leftovers even tastier the next day.
Freezing
Because of the fresh vegetables and mozzarella, this salad is best enjoyed fresh and is not suitable for freezing. Freezing would affect the texture of the veggies and cheese, making them less enjoyable once thawed.
Reheating
This salad is designed to be served cold or at room temperature, so reheating is not necessary. If you prefer it a bit warmer, allow it to sit at room temperature for 15 to 20 minutes before serving. Just avoid heating it in the microwave as this could change the texture of the mozzarella and vegetables.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta for this salad?
Absolutely! Rotini is ideal because its twists hold the dressing well, but other short pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or farfalle work beautifully too. Just choose a pasta that can capture the dressing and mix well with the ingredients.
Is this Italian Pasta Salad with Fresh Vegetables, Mozzarella, and Dressing Recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes! Simply omit the salami or substitute it with a vegetarian-friendly alternative to keep it meat-free without compromising flavor. The combination of fresh veggies and cheese makes it wonderfully satisfying.
How far in advance can I prepare this salad?
This recipe can be made up to a day in advance. Prepare the salad and toss it with the dressing, then refrigerate. For the freshest texture, add fresh basil just before serving.
Can I use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder for the dressing?
Yes, fresh garlic can definitely be used. Just mince it very finely and start with about half a clove, adjusting to taste. Fresh garlic will add a stronger, sharper flavor compared to the milder garlic powder.
What if I don’t have red wine vinegar?
You can substitute red wine vinegar with white wine vinegar or even apple cider vinegar. Each will slightly change the flavor profile, but all add the essential acidity needed to brighten the salad.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about this Italian Pasta Salad with Fresh Vegetables, Mozzarella, and Dressing Recipe that makes it a perennial favorite. It’s fresh, easy to make, and packed with colorful, healthy ingredients that satisfy every craving. Once you try this salad, you’ll understand why it’s one of those dishes that friends and family keep asking for again and again. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and enjoy a bowl of sunshine in every bite!
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Italian Pasta Salad with Fresh Vegetables, Mozzarella, and Dressing Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Italian Pasta Salad is a fresh and flavorful dish featuring rotini pasta tossed with colorful vegetables, mozzarella pearls, salami, and a tangy homemade dressing. Perfect as a light main or a side dish, it combines savory and zesty flavors with a delightful mix of textures, served chilled for a refreshing meal.
Ingredients
Pasta and Vegetables
- 12 oz rotini pasta (or any short pasta)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- ½ cup red bell pepper, diced
- ½ cup yellow bell pepper, diced
- ÂĽ cup red onion, finely chopped
- ½ cup black olives, sliced
Dairy and Protein
- ½ cup mozzarella pearls (or diced fresh mozzarella)
- ÂĽ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup salami, diced (optional)
Fresh Herbs
- ÂĽ cup fresh basil, chopped
Dressing
- â…“ cup olive oil
- 3 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil the rotini pasta according to the package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture, ensuring the pasta is firm yet tender. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down and stop the cooking process.
- Mix the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, red and yellow bell peppers, finely chopped red onion, sliced black olives, mozzarella pearls, grated Parmesan cheese, and diced salami if using. Gently toss to distribute all ingredients evenly.
- Make the Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper until the dressing is smooth and well combined.
- Combine and Chill: Pour the prepared dressing over the pasta salad mixture and toss thoroughly to ensure every ingredient is coated with the flavorful dressing. Garnish the salad with freshly chopped basil and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the salad to chill.
Notes
- You can substitute salami with pepperoni or omit the meat for a vegetarian version.
- Make sure to rinse the pasta after cooking to prevent it from sticking and to cool it quickly.
- For best flavor, let the salad chill for at least 30 minutes, but it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Feel free to add other vegetables such as artichoke hearts or sun-dried tomatoes for variety.
- This salad is perfect for picnics, potlucks, or as a light lunch option.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
