Zesty Italian Pasta Salad - A Quick Recipe

Discover the vibrant flavors of our Zesty Italian Pasta Salad, a culinary celebration that promises to delight your taste buds. Whether you're planning a picnic or seeking a light yet satisfying meal, this recipe is your ticket to a flavorful adventure through Italian cuisine.

Ingredients:

1 pound of rotini or bowtie pasta (cooked al dente)
1 green bell pepper (diced)
1 cup of halved grape tomatoes
1 cup of sliced black olives
1 cup of diced cucumber (seeds removed)
½ cup of sliced banana peppers or pepperoncini
2 tablespoons of finely chopped shallot
8 ounces of mozzarella pearls
½ cup of grated parmesan cheese

Dressing Ingredients:

¼ cup of red wine vinegar
2 teaspoons of fine sea salt
1 teaspoon of garlic powder
1 teaspoon of onion powder
1 tablespoon of granulated sugar
1 teaspoon of dried basil
1 teaspoon of dried parsley
2 ½ teaspoons of dried oregano
1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
½ – 1 teaspoon of black pepper
½ cup of extra virgin olive oil

Instructions:

Cook the pasta until al dente, then rinse under cold water and set aside.
Whisk together red wine vinegar, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, sugar, basil, parsley, oregano, red pepper flakes, black pepper, and olive oil to prepare the Italian dressing.
Toss the cooled pasta with the dressing until evenly coated.
Add diced bell pepper, halved tomatoes, sliced olives, diced cucumber, sliced banana peppers, and finely chopped shallot to the pasta.
Gently fold in mozzarella pearls and grated parmesan cheese.
Serve immediately for a burst of freshness or chill in the refrigerator for a refreshing option later.

Experience the bold flavors of Italy with each bite of our Zesty Italian Pasta Salad. This recipe is not just a dish—it's a flavorful journey through Italian cuisine. Elevate your next meal with this delightful pasta salad, and enjoy the vibrant flavors and textures that make it a timeless favorite. Dive in and discover why this salad continues to captivate food enthusiasts worldwide.