Mediterranean Creamy Italian Pasta Salad

Mediterranean Creamy Italian Pasta Salad

Mediterranean Creamy Italian Pasta Salad is a delicious and easy dish that brings together vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients. It’s a perfect option for a picnic, potluck, or quick weeknight dinner. The creamy dressing, combined with colorful veggies, makes this pasta salad both satisfying and refreshing.

Why Make This Recipe

You should consider making this recipe because it’s quick to prepare, full of nutrients, and incredibly tasty. The combination of pasta and fresh vegetables ensures you get both carbohydrates and vitamins in one dish. Plus, it’s customizable – you can add or remove ingredients based on your preferences. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a meal alone, this pasta salad will not disappoint!

How to Make Mediterranean Creamy Italian Pasta Salad

Ingredients

• 12 oz (340 g) short pasta (fusilli, rotini, or penne)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 small cucumber, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1/2 cup olives, sliced
• 1/4 cup red onion, diced
• 1/2 cup creamy Italian dressing
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish

Directions

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions; drain and let cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and red onion.
3. Pour in the creamy Italian dressing and toss until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
6. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

How to Serve Mediterranean Creamy Italian Pasta Salad

Serve the pasta salad chilled or at room temperature. It works beautifully as a side dish or a main course. You can place it in a large bowl and let everyone serve themselves or portion it out into smaller bowls for a more elegant presentation. This pasta salad pairs well with grilled meats or as part of a buffet spread.

How to Store Mediterranean Creamy Italian Pasta Salad

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The salad will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Keep in mind that the pasta may absorb some of the dressing over time, so you might want to add a little more dressing before serving the leftovers.

Tips to Make Mediterranean Creamy Italian Pasta Salad

• Make the pasta salad a day ahead. The flavors meld together nicely when it sits overnight in the fridge.
• Adjust the dressing according to your taste. If you prefer a creamier salad, feel free to add more dressing.
• For added texture, try using whole wheat or gluten-free pasta.

Variation

You can easily change up this recipe by adding different vegetables or proteins. Consider including ingredients like artichokes, chickpeas, or grilled chicken for a heartier salad. You can also swap the creamy Italian dressing for a vinaigrette for a lighter option.

FAQs

Can I use different pasta shapes?

Yes, feel free to use any short pasta shape you prefer! Fusilli, rotini, or penne work well, but you can choose your favorite.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This pasta salad stores well in the fridge and is great for meal prep. Just make sure to keep it in an airtight container.

Can I make it vegan?

Yes! To make it vegan, use a dairy-free creamy dressing and skip any non-vegan add-ins like cheese or meat. You can add more veggies or chickpeas for protein.

Enjoy making and sharing this Mediterranean Creamy Italian Pasta Salad! It’s sure to be a hit wherever you serve it.