This easy pasta salad recipe is a delightful mix of pasta, fresh veggies, and zesty dressing. It’s made with rotini pasta, vegetables, cheese, salami, and Olive Garden’s unique dressing. It’s perfect for any gathering and will have everyone asking for seconds.
Choosing the right pasta is key to a great salad. Pasta like rotini, fusilli, or penne are ideal because they catch the dressing well. This recipe uses grape tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion. You can also add other veggies like peppers or carrots to make it even better.
Cheese adds a great touch to this salad, and you can pick your favorite. Cheddar, provolone, mozzarella, feta, or parmesan all work well. To boost the flavors even more, add some Salad Supreme Seasoning. It’ll really make the salad pop.
The dressing is what makes this salad so special. The Olive Garden Italian dressing is perfect for its tangy and robust taste. It brings the pasta and veggies together beautifully.
You can make this pasta salad ahead and keep it in the fridge for 4-5 days. This makes it perfect for potlucks, picnics, or as a meal prep. Serve it as a side with grilled meat for a full meal, or by itself for a quick, tasty lunch. Its bright colors and fresh tastes make this salad a household favorite.
To make top-notch pasta salad, remember a few tips.
Cook the Pasta Al Dente
Make sure to cook your pasta al dente. This means it should be slightly firm, not too soft. Al dente pasta keeps its shape and texture in the salad.
Use Fresh and Seasonal Vegetables
Use fresh veggies for the best flavor and crunch. Add colorful peppers, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions. Feel free to mix in any veggies you like!
Create a Delicious Dressing
Pasta salad dressing is key for great flavor. Use a store-bought Italian dressing or make your own. A mix of olive oil, vinegar, Dijon mustard, and herbs works well. Try different dressings to see what you like best!
Generously Salt the Pasta Water
Don’t forget to salt the water when cooking pasta. It seasons the pasta and helps it absorb flavor. This simple step boosts your salad’s taste.
Toss Warm Pasta with Dressing
Toss the pasta with dressing while it’s warm. Warm pasta absorbs dressing better, making every bite flavorful.
Add Customized Ingredients
Enhance your pasta salad with custom ingredients. Add things like sliced olives, pepperoncini, or cheese. Personalize your salad to your liking.
Refrigerate Before Serving
Chill your pasta salad for at least an hour before serving. This makes the pasta firm and the salad refreshing.
Store and Re-Moisten Leftovers
Store leftover pasta salad in the fridge for up to 4-5 days. If it dries out, just add more dressing before serving.
Conclusion
Homemade pasta salad with Olive Garden dressing is the perfect summer side. It mixes fresh veggies, tasty dressing, and great pasta. At any summer event, this pasta salad will shine.
The dressing from Olive Garden adds a creamy, zesty touch. While its exact recipe is a secret, many try to copy it. Their versions are all over the internet for us to try.
This pasta salad is a fantastic choice for anyone. It works for vegetarians and vegans too. You can make it your own by adding things like chicken or shrimp, or maybe have the dressing on the side.
Don’t wait to make this simple, homemade pasta salad. It will wow your guests with its rich flavor. It’s a true taste of summer.
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References:
What is Olive Garden’s Salad Dressing? – recipes.net
Tortellini Pasta Salad with Tomatoes, Basil & Fresh Corn – fivehearthome.com
FAQ
What type of pasta should I use for the pasta salad?
For pasta salad, choose rotini, fusilli, or penne. Their shapes hold the dressing well. This gives the salad a great texture.
Can I add other vegetables to the pasta salad?
Sure, add veggies like peppers or carrots. They’ll boost the flavor and color of your pasta salad.
What cheese options can I use for the pasta salad?
Cheddar, provolone, mozzarella, feta, or parmesan are all good cheese options. Pick one based on the taste you like and what you want your salad to be like.
What is the secret ingredient for added flavor?
Salad Supreme Seasoning is the secret for more flavor. It makes the pasta salad taste better.
How long can I refrigerate the pasta salad?
Keep the pasta salad in the fridge for up to 4-5 days. This helps the flavors blend nicely. It’s also handy for meal prep.
Can I serve the pasta salad as a main dish?
Yes, the pasta salad is great for a quick lunch. It’s also a tasty side with grilled chicken or steak.
How do I prevent the pasta from becoming mushy?
Cook the pasta until it’s al dente. This means it should be firm when you bite into it but cooked all the way through.
Can I use store-bought Italian dressing?
Using store-bought, like the Olive Garden Italian dressing suggested in the recipe, is fine. Feel free to make your own dressing too if you prefer that.
How long should I refrigerate the pasta salad before serving?
Chill the pasta salad for at least an hour before serving. This cools the pasta and lets the flavors come together.
How long can I store leftover pasta salad?
Leftovers can be refrigerated for 4-5 days in a sealed container. Stir well and add a bit of dressing before serving again if it’s dry.
Can I customize the pasta salad with additional ingredients?
Feel free to add your own twist with ingredients like olives or pepperoncini peppers. Mixing in different cheeses is also a good idea. Be creative!
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