Get ready to transform your ordinary meal into an extraordinary culinary experience with Kimmy's Easy Pasta Salad! This vibrant, no-fuss recipe is about to become your new go-to dish for picnics, potlucks, and quick weeknight dinners. Bursting with fresh ingredients and Mediterranean-inspired flavors, this pasta salad is so delicious and simple that you'll want to make it again and again. Whether you're a busy home cook or a pasta enthusiast, this recipe promises maximum flavor with minimal effort!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 20 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 balls
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp Italian seasoning
- 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 and cheese. Halve the cherry tomatoes and slice the black olives.
- When the pasta is cooked, drain it in a colander and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta down.
- Transfer the cooled pasta to a large mixing bowl. Add the halved cherry tomatoes, sliced black olives, and mozzarella balls.
- Drizzle olive oil over the pasta and vegetables. Sprinkle Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper over the mixture.
- Gently toss all ingredients together until the pasta and vegetables are evenly coated with seasoning and olive oil.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 10-15 minutes to allow flavors to meld together before serving.
- Serve chilled as a refreshing pasta salad. Can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Tips
- Cook pasta al dente: Slightly firm pasta prevents your salad from becoming mushy when chilled.
- Rinse pasta with cold water: This stops the cooking process and helps cool the pasta quickly.
- Let it marinate: Refrigerating for 10-15 minutes allows flavors to blend beautifully.
- Use fresh ingredients: High-quality mozzarella and ripe cherry tomatoes make a big difference.
- Customize to taste: Feel free to add grilled chicken, salami, or swap herbs to make it your own.
- Make ahead: This salad tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep.
- Keep it chilled: Serve cold for the most refreshing experience.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 437kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 15mg
