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Italian cuisine is renowned for its rich flavors and diverse dishes, and pasta salads hold a special place in this culinary landscape. These salads are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile, making them a popular choice for gatherings and casual meals alike. Among the myriad of pasta salad options, the La Dolce Vita Cold Italian Pasta Salad stands out as a refreshing and colorful dish perfect for warm weather. Whether you are hosting a summer barbecue, packing a picnic, or preparing for a potluck, this salad is an excellent option that is sure to please.

Cold Italian Pasta Salad

Discover the refreshing taste of La Dolce Vita Cold Italian Pasta Salad, a vibrant dish perfect for warm weather gatherings! Featuring tri-color rotini, fresh vegetables like cherry tomatoes and cucumbers, creamy mozzarella balls, and a zesty Italian dressing, this salad is easy to prepare and deliciously satisfying. Ideal for picnics, potlucks, or barbecues, it’s a colorful way to celebrate Italian flavors while enjoying a nutritious meal. Explore endless customization options to make it your own!
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Ingredients
  

12 oz tri-color rotini pasta

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup cucumber, diced

1 cup bell peppers (red and yellow), diced

1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped

1 cup black olives, sliced

1 cup mozzarella balls (bocconcini), halved

1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped

1/2 cup Italian dressing (store-bought or homemade)

1 tsp dried oregano

Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional: Grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring approximately 4 quarts of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the tri-color rotini pasta and cook as per package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse under cold running water to halt the cooking process and cool it down. Set aside to drain thoroughly.

    Prepare the Vegetables: While the pasta cools, wash and prepare the vegetables. Halve the cherry tomatoes, peel and dice the cucumber, and chop the bell peppers into small pieces. Finely chop the red onion. Slice the black olives and halve the mozzarella balls into bite-sized pieces.

      Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta along with the prepared cherry tomatoes, cucumber, diced bell peppers, finely chopped red onion, sliced black olives, and halved mozzarella balls. Toss in the chopped fresh basil for an aromatic touch.

        Dress the Salad: Drizzle the Italian dressing over the pasta and vegetable mixture. Add the dried oregano, salt, and pepper to taste. Gently toss all ingredients together until they are well mixed and evenly coated in the dressing, making sure not to crush the ingredients.

          Chill: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes. This chilling period allows the flavors to blend beautifully and enhances the overall taste.

            Serve: Just before serving, give the salad a gentle stir to redistribute the dressing. If desired, garnish the salad with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese and additional fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and flavor. Serve chilled and enjoy the refreshing flavors!

              Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes | Servings: 6-8

                Presentation Tips: Serve the pasta salad in a large, elegant bowl or individual glass cups to showcase the vibrant colors of the ingredients. Consider garnishing with a sprig of fresh basil and a light drizzle of more Italian dressing for an appetizing touch.