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Tri Color Pasta Salad pinterest

Tri Color Pasta Salad

This classic, colorful pasta salad combines vibrant tri-colored rotini with fresh vegetables, cheese, and Italian dressing for a refreshing summer dish perfect for potlucks and gatherings.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 25 minutes
Course Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine American, Italian
Servings 8 servings
Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Cutting Board
  • Sharp Knife

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Vegetables

  • 1 pound tri-color rotini pasta
  • 1 pint cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1 medium red bell pepper diced
  • 1 medium yellow bell pepper diced
  • 1 medium green bell pepper diced
  • 1 cup black olives sliced
  • 8 ounces mozzarella cheese cubed
  • 1/2 cup red onion finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup fresh basil chopped

Dressing

  • 3/4 cup Italian dressing
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tbsp honey optional

Instructions
 

  • Cook the tri-color rotini in a large pot of salted water until al dente, about 7-9 minutes. Immediately rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and preserve the vibrant colors.
  • While the pasta cooks, prepare your vegetables. Slice tomatoes, dice peppers, and chop onions to uniform sizes (approximately 1/2 inch pieces).
  • In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooled pasta with the prepared vegetables, olives, and mozzarella cubes.
  • Mix the Italian dressing with grated Parmesan cheese, and season with salt and pepper to taste. If using, add 1 tablespoon of honey for a more balanced flavor profile.
  • Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently to coat evenly.
  • Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow flavors to develop.
  • Add the fresh basil just before serving to maintain its vibrant color and aroma. Toss once more and serve chilled.

Notes

For best results, make this salad at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld. The salad will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
For a healthier version, try using whole wheat pasta or replacing half the pasta with spiralized vegetables.
If preparing in advance for an event, consider keeping the dressing separate until 2-3 hours before serving to maintain optimal texture.

Nutrition

Calories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 42gProtein: 12gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 480mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4g
Keyword Pasta Salad, Tri Color Pasta, Cold Pasta, Summer Recipe, Potluck
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