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Layered Pasta Salad

Layered Pasta Salad: Colorful Goodness for Every Gathering

Layered Pasta Salad: A colorful and customizable dish that's perfect for any gathering.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz Cooked Pasta Rotini or penne work well.
For the Vegetables
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes Can swap with grape tomatoes.
  • 1 cup Cucumber Zucchini can be used for a different texture.
  • 1/2 cup Red Onion Green onions can be used for a milder flavor.
  • 1 cup Green Bell Pepper Red or yellow can be used for sweetness.
  • 1/2 cup Black Olives Green olives can be used as an alternative.
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley Basil can be used as a substitute.
For the Cheese
  • 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese Can substitute with cheddar or a dairy-free option.
For the Dressing
  • 1/2 cup Italian Dressing Homemade dressing is an option.
  • 1/2 cup Mayonnaise Greek yogurt can be a lighter alternative.
  • 1 tbsp White Vinegar Lemon juice is a good substitute.
  • 1 tbsp Sugar Omit for less sweetness.
  • 1 tsp Salt Adjust according to taste.
  • 1 tsp Black Pepper White pepper can be a subtler alternative.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • colander
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Large spoon
  • plastic wrap

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Layered Pasta Salad
  1. Cook the pasta by boiling a large pot of water, add pasta and cook until al dente (8-10 minutes). Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. Prepare the vegetables by washing and chopping; combine them with the cooled pasta in a large mixing bowl.
  3. Add olives and cheese, folding gently to ensure even distribution.
  4. Whisk together the dressing ingredients in a medium bowl until smooth and well combined.
  5. Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetable mixture, and gently toss until everything is well coated.
  6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld.
  7. Before serving, give the salad a gentle toss and serve in a beautiful dish.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 8gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

Customize with your favorite vegetables or proteins. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

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