Easy Pasta Salad: Easy Way to Make a Sensational Side Dish
Easy Pasta Salad is a classic crowd-pleasing side dish made with spiral pasta, fresh vegetables, cheese, and zesty Italian dressing—perfect for potlucks, barbecues, and family gatherings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 2 pounds uncooked spiral pasta
- 1 1/2 cups diced colby jack cheese
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup cauliflower florets
- 1 cup halved grape tomatoes
- 1/2 cup black olives
- 1 (16 oz) bottle Italian dressing
Instructions
1. Cook the spiral pasta according to the directions on the package until al dente.
2. While the pasta is cooking, steam the broccoli and cauliflower florets together in a microwave steamer bag. Cook just under the recommended time so they remain slightly crisp.
3. Once the pasta is finished cooking, rinse it with cold water and drain thoroughly.
4. In a large bowl, toss together the cooked pasta, steamed vegetables, colby jack cheese, grape tomatoes, black olives, and Italian dressing until evenly coated.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to blend.
Notes
This recipe is a simple base that can be customized with additional ingredients such as diced ham, mushrooms, mozzarella cheese, parmesan, or salami.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 520 kcal
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 62g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
Find it online: https://paulakitchen.com/easy-pasta-salad/