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Olive Garden Pasta Salad

Olive Garden Pasta Salad: A Creamy Summer Delight

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Enjoy a refreshing Olive Garden Pasta Salad, a colorful, creamy dish perfect for summer picnics and gatherings.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 8 people
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 1 pound Rotini Pasta Opt for gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option.
  • 1 medium Red Onion Can be substituted with green onions for a milder flavor.
  • 1 pint Cherry Tomatoes Regular tomatoes can be used if halved.
  • 1 medium Cucumber Substitute with zucchini for a low-carb alternative.
  • 1 cup Black Olives Can swap with Kalamata olives for a different flavor profile.
  • 1/2 cup Green Olives Omit if not preferred.
  • 1 medium Bell Pepper Any color works; use roasted peppers for a smoky taste.
  • 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese Dairy-free alternatives can be used for a vegan version.
  • 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Nutritional yeast can be a dairy-free substitute.
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup Italian Dressing Homemade or store-bought can be used.
  • 1/2 cup Mayonnaise Substitute with Greek yogurt for a tangy twist.
  • 2 tablespoons Red Wine Vinegar Substitute white vinegar if needed.
  • Salt and Pepper Adjust to personal preference.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • colander
  • Mixing Bowl
  • whisk

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, approximately 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta, rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled rotini pasta with diced red onion, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, sliced black and green olives, and diced bell pepper. Mix well.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together Italian dressing, mayonnaise, and red wine vinegar until smooth. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper.
  4. Pour the dressing mixture over the pasta salad. Gently toss until everything is well coated.
  5. Fold in shredded mozzarella and grated parmesan cheese, mixing just until incorporated.
  6. Cover and refrigerate for a minimum of 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
  7. After chilling, give the salad a gentle stir, adjust seasoning if needed, and serve.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 9gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 25mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 6mg

Notes

Chill the salad for at least 30 minutes to meld flavors. It's best enjoyed fresh and can be made a day in advance for even better taste.

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