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+ servings
California Pasta Salad

California Pasta Salad: Bright, Flavorful & Totally Customizable

A vibrant California Pasta Salad that's perfect for sunny picnics, combining colorful vegetables and zesty dressing, making it a must-try dish.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta Base
  • 8 oz Rotini Pasta Use gluten-free pasta for dietary alternative.
For the Fresh Veggies
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes Substitute with grape tomatoes if needed.
  • 1 cup Cucumber Zucchini can be swapped for different texture.
  • 1/2 cup Red Onion Leeks or green onions can be used as milder alternatives.
  • 1 cup Bell Pepper Any color or roasted red peppers will work.
  • 1/2 cup Black Olives Consider green olives or capers for an alternative.
For the Creamy Touch
  • 1 cup Sharp Cheddar Cheese Use vegan cheese for dairy-free option or omit.
For the Dressing
  • 1/2 cup Italian Salad Dressing Homemade dressing can add a personal touch.
For Finishing Touches
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley Basil or cilantro as substitutes.
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Pepper

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • mixing bowl
  • Spatula or spoon

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, add the rotini pasta and cook it according to package instructions until al dente, typically around 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. While the pasta cools, chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and bell pepper into bite-sized pieces.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with the diced vegetables, including black olives and bell pepper. Add in the cheddar cheese cubes, ensuring even distribution.
  4. Pour Italian salad dressing over the mixture and gently toss until all ingredients are well-coated.
  5. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as desired. Top the salad with fresh chopped parsley before serving.
  6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Serve chilled.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 10gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 350mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 1mg

Notes

This pasta salad is perfect for picnics and can be made ahead of time. Consider adding grilled chicken, chickpeas, or tofu for extra protein.

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