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California Pasta Salad

California Pasta Salad: A Fresh, Easy, and Colorful Delight

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A vibrant California Pasta Salad, bursting with freshness and ideal for any dietary preference.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Veggies
  • 12 oz Rotini Pasta Consider using gluten-free pasta.
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes Halved; grape tomatoes are a substitute.
  • 1 cup Cucumber Diced; swap in zucchini for variation.
  • 1/2 cup Red Onion Finely chopped; green onions can be milder.
  • 1/2 cup Black Olives Sliced; substitute green olives if desired.
  • 1/2 cup Bell Pepper Chopped; any color works or roast for smokiness.
Dressing and Cheese
  • 1/2 cup Italian Salad Dressing A homemade mix is a great substitute.
  • 1/2 cup Sharp Cheddar Cheese Cubed; try dairy-free cheese for vegan option.
  • 1 tablespoon Fresh Parsley Chopped; basil can also be used.
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Pepper

Equipment

  • large pot
  • colander
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Large Spoon

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Cook the rotini pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions, about 8-10 minutes until al dente.
  2. Drain and rinse cooked pasta under cold water, then shake excess water off and set aside to cool.
  3. In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, chopped red onion, sliced black olives, and chopped bell pepper.
  4. Pour Italian dressing over the mixture and toss gently until well-coated.
  5. Season with salt and pepper, then sprinkle with chopped parsley and give it one last toss.
  6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 8gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 450mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 12mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Ideal for meal prep, stores well in an airtight container for up to three days. Customize ingredients based on seasonal availability.

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