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Tasty Cold Pasta Salad

Tasty Cold Pasta Salad

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Discover the joy of vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients with this Tasty Cold Pasta Salad! Perfect for summer picnics, family gatherings, or weekday lunches, this salad combines al dente pasta with a colorful medley of vegetables, creamy cheese, and a zesty dressing that ties it all together. Each bite is a celebration of freshness and community, inviting everyone to savor the moment.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound pasta (fusilli, penne, rotini, or farfalle)
  • 1 cup sliced bell pepper
  • 1 cup thin zucchini slices
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/3 cup sliced green onions
  • 1/4 cup sliced banana peppers (optional)
  • 1 cup mixed olives, halved
  • 1 cup finely grated parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls, chopped
  • 1/3 cup apple vinegar or sparkling grape juice vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 2 to 3 tablespoons juice from banana peppers (optional)
  • 1/2 cup high-quality olive oil

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente (about 6 minutes). Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled pasta with bell pepper, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, green onions, banana peppers (if using), mixed olives, and both cheeses.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together vinegar, olive oil, salt, pepper, and optional banana pepper juice until emulsified.
  4. Drizzle dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently to combine.
  5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

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