Rotini Pasta Salad Recipe

Rotini Pasta Salad Recipe is a fun and colorful dish that’s perfect for any gathering. I love how the twisted shape of rotini pasta holds on to all the delicious flavors of the dressing and veggies, making every bite a taste sensation. This salad is not just easy to make, but it’s also refreshing, satisfying, and can be enjoyed year-round. Whether it’s a summer barbecue or a cozy winter meal, this dish always fits in just right.

Ingredients for Rotini Pasta Salad Recipe

Here’s what you will need for a classic Rotini Pasta Salad. Take a trip to your local grocery store and gather these simple ingredients:

Pasta

  • 1 pound of rotini pasta

Veggies

Cheese

  • 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, diced or use shredded cheese

Protein (Optional)

  • 1 can of chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup of diced cooked chicken or salami

Dressing

  • 1/2 cup of olive oil
  • 1/4 cup of vinegar (red wine or balsamic)
  • 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Herbs (Optional)

  • Fresh parsley or basil for garnish

How to Make Rotini Pasta Salad Recipe

Cooking the pasta is the first step to making a delicious Rotini Pasta Salad. This is how I do it:

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes.
  3. Once cooked, drain and rinse the pasta under cold water to stop the cooking process. This keeps the pasta firm.
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Rinsing the pasta is key. It cools it down and prevents it from becoming mushy when mixed with the other ingredients.

Chop the Veggies

While the pasta is cooking, it’s a great time to prep the veggies. Here’s a quick breakdown of how I like to chop them:

  • Cherry Tomatoes: Halve them for a burst of sweetness.
  • Cucumber: Dice it to add crunch and freshness.
  • Bell Pepper: Choose your favorite color and dice it for a sweet pop.
  • Red Onion: Finely chop to add a little bite to the salad.
  • Broccoli: Cut it into small florets. I usually blanch them for a minute for better texture.

Take your time with this step. A variety of shapes and colors not only looks appealing but also adds different flavors.

Prepare the Dressing

A good dressing can elevate your pasta salad. I love making a quick and easy dressing that is both tangy and rich. Here’s how I do it:

  1. In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper till smooth.
  2. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste. If you like it tangier, add a splash more of vinegar.

This simple dressing is packed with flavor and completes the salad beautifully.

Combine Everything in One Bowl

Now comes the part where everything comes together. In a large bowl, combine the cooked rotini pasta, chopped veggies, mozzarella cheese, and protein if you opted to include it.

  1. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture.
  2. Toss everything together gently to coat the pasta and veggies well.

Be careful not to break the pasta or veggies while mixing.

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Chill the Salad

After everything is combined, let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Chilling allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Garnish for Extra Flavor

As a finishing touch, I like to garnish my Rotini Pasta Salad with fresh herbs. Adding chopped parsley or basil right before serving adds a fresh, herbal note.

Serving Suggestions Rotini Pasta Salad Recipe

This salad is best served cold or at room temperature. Here are some of my favorite ways to enjoy it:

  • As a side dish for grilled meats.
  • As a main dish for a light lunch.
  • Pack it for a picnic in a sealed container.

Rotini Pasta Salad works well for meal prep too. Just store it in the fridge and grab it when you need a quick meal.

Variations of Rotini Pasta Salad Recipe

One of the best things about Pasta Salad is how easily you can change it up. Here are a few fun variations I love:

  • Mediterranean Style: Add olives, feta cheese, and artichokes for a Mediterranean twist.
  • Italian Style: Throw in Italian dressing and add salami, pepperoni, or fresh basil.
  • Greek Style: Swap out the mozzarella for feta and use lemon juice in place of the vinegar.

Storing Leftovers

If there’s any Rotini Pasta Salad left, don’t worry. Storing it is simple:

  • Keep it in a covered airtight container in the refrigerator.
  • It’s good for up to three days, but remember, the longer it sits, the softer the veggies can become.

Enjoying Your Rotini Pasta Salad Recipe

Rotini Pasta Salad is one of those dishes that’s satisfying and versatile. I love how it can be changed based on what’s in season or what you have at home. Plus, it can be made a day ahead, making it perfect for gatherings.

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Few things beat a flavorful, colorful salad that packs a punch with every bite. I highly recommend trying different combinations and making this recipe your own.