Pasta salad is a great way to enjoy a delicious and refreshing meal without a lot of hassle. This easy pasta salad recipe with Italian dressing is a perfect example of a simple but flavorful dish that can be enjoyed for lunch, dinner, or even as a side dish. The zesty Italian dressing adds a tangy and savory flavor to the salad, making it a perfect choice for summer gatherings or picnics.
The best part about this easy pasta salad recipe is that it’s incredibly versatile. You can add or substitute ingredients as you like to suit your taste preferences. For example, you could add some grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein boost, or some chopped bell peppers or zucchini for extra veggies.
Ingredients and Equipments
To make this easy pasta salad recipe with Italian dressing, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound dried pasta (such as penne, rotini, or macaroni)
- 1 cup chopped red onion
- 1 cup chopped bell pepper (any color)
- 1 cup chopped cucumber
- 1/2 cup chopped black olives
- 1/2 cup chopped pepperoni
- 1/4 cup sliced banana peppers (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
You’ll also need the following equipment:
- Large pot
- Colander
- Large bowl
- Mixing spoons
- Measuring cups and spoons
How To Make Easy Pasta Salad Recipe Italian Dressing
To make this easy pasta salad recipe with Italian dressing, follow these steps:
- Cook the pasta according to the package directions. Drain the pasta and rinse it with cold water.
- In a large bowl, combine the pasta, red onion, bell pepper, cucumber, black olives, pepperoni, banana peppers (if using), and parsley.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the Italian dressing ingredients. Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss to coat.
- Serve the pasta salad immediately or refrigerate it until chilled.
Tips or Possible Variation
Here are a few tips to make the most of this easy pasta salad recipe with Italian dressing:
- For a more flavorful salad, use a high-quality Italian dressing. You can also make your own Italian dressing using olive oil, vinegar, herbs, and spices.
- If you don’t have pepperoni, you can substitute another type of deli meat, such as ham or salami.
- To make the salad more vegetarian-friendly, omit the pepperoni and add extra vegetables, such as diced zucchini, corn, or carrots.
With its burst of flavors and customizable options, this easy pasta salad recipe with Italian dressing is a delicious and versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy lunch or a flavorful side dish for your next gathering, this pasta salad is sure to please everyone at the table!