Easy Pasta Salad
A delicious and customizable pasta salad, perfect for potlucks, barbecues, and gatherings. This dish is easy to prepare and can be made in advance for effortless entertaining.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked pasta (such as rotini or bowtie)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup diced cucumber
- 1/2 cup bell peppers, chopped
- 1/2 cup red onion, chopped
- 1 cup olives, sliced (optional) Optional for added flavor
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional) Optional for creaminess
- 1/2 cup Italian dressing
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional) Optional for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions, then drain and let it cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell peppers, red onion, olives, and feta cheese.
- Pour the Italian dressing over the salad and toss everything together gently.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Notes
Serve the pasta salad cold or at room temperature. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, but best enjoyed within the first day or two. Customize with your favorite veggies or proteins.