Craving a delicious, health-conscious meal that doesn't compromise on flavor? Look no further than this mouthwatering Weight Watchers Italian Pasta Salad that will transport your taste buds straight to the sun-drenched streets of Italy! Perfect for summer gatherings, quick lunches, or a light dinner, this recipe proves that eating healthy can be incredibly satisfying and packed with vibrant Mediterranean flavors.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz rotini pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, cubed
- 1/4 cup red onion, diced
- 1/4 cup Italian dressing
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and add a pinch of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Add the rotini pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes, until the pasta is al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the pasta is cooking, prepare the vegetables. Wash and halve the cherry tomatoes, slice the black olives, dice the red onion, and cube the mozzarella cheese.
- Once pasta is cooked, drain in a colander and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta quickly.
- Transfer the cooled pasta to a large mixing bowl. Add the halved cherry tomatoes, sliced black olives, diced red onion, and cubed mozzarella cheese.
- Pour the Italian dressing over the pasta and vegetable mixture. Gently toss to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, mixing thoroughly.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together before serving.
- Before serving, give the salad a quick stir and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve chilled.
Tips
- Cook pasta al dente: Ensure your rotini is perfectly cooked by testing it a minute before the package instructions suggest. Overcooking can lead to mushy pasta.
- Cool pasta quickly: Rinsing with cold water stops the cooking process and helps prevent the pasta from sticking together.
- Chill for maximum flavor: Letting the salad rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes allows the dressing to fully infuse the ingredients.
- Customize your salad: Feel free to add grilled chicken or swap mozzarella for a lower-fat cheese option to make it even more Weight Watchers friendly.
- Use fresh ingredients: Choose ripe cherry tomatoes and high-quality Italian dressing for the best taste.
- Make ahead: This salad tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 15mg
