Vegetarian Italian Pasta Salad Recipe
A refreshing and colorful Vegetarian Italian Pasta Salad featuring tender pasta, juicy tomatoes, savory olives, creamy mozzarella, and tangy Italian dressing. Perfect as a light meal or a side dish for any occasion.
- Author: Yana
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Pasta
- 2 cups cooked pasta (such as rotini or penne)
Vegetables and Cheese
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls, halved
Dressing
- Cook the pasta: Prepare the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta.
- Prepare the vegetables and cheese: Halve the cherry tomatoes, slice the olives, and halve the mozzarella balls as needed.
- Toss all ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, tomatoes, olives, and mozzarella. Pour the Italian dressing over the salad and toss gently until all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Chill the salad: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld and the salad to chill before serving.
Notes
- Use rotini or penne pasta for best texture that holds the dressing well.
- For a healthier option, choose a low-fat or homemade Italian dressing.
- Add fresh basil or Italian seasoning for extra flavor.
- Can be prepared a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator.
- Serve chilled for best taste and freshness.
Keywords: Vegetarian pasta salad, Italian pasta salad, mozzarella pasta salad, easy pasta salad, chilled pasta salad