Italian Pasta Salad

Mediterranean cuisine is celebrated for its vibrant flavors, colorful ingredients, and wholesome nutrition. This culinary tradition, deeply rooted in the cultures surrounding the Mediterranean Sea, emphasizes fresh vegetables, healthy fats, and aromatic herbs, offering a delightful array of dishes that can satisfy both the palate and the body. One such dish that captures the essence of this vibrant cuisine is the Mediterranean Bliss Pasta Salad. This versatile salad serves as an ideal choice for various occasions, from casual family dinners to festive gatherings and potlucks.

Discover the Mediterranean Bliss Pasta Salad, a vibrant dish bursting with fresh flavors and nutrition. This colorful salad combines tri-color rotini, fresh veggies like cherry tomatoes and bell peppers, kalamata olives, and creamy mozzarella, all dressed in a zesty olive oil and lemon dressing. Perfect for any occasion, it embodies the principles of the Mediterranean diet, promoting health and wellness. Enjoy a delicious meal that's as good for your body as it is for your taste buds!

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Ingredients

12 oz (340g) tri-color rotini pasta

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup cucumber, diced

1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced

1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced

1 cup mozzarella balls (bocconcini)

1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped

1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil

2 tbsp red wine vinegar

1 tsp dried oregano

1 garlic clove, minced

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the tri-color rotini and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.

Prepare the Vegetables: While the pasta is cooking, chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, and red onion. Slice the Kalamata olives and mozzarella balls.

Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to your taste.

Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the drained pasta, chopped vegetables, olives, mozzarella, fresh basil, and parsley. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss well to combine.

Chill and Serve: Cover the pasta salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Toss again before serving and enjoy!

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 6-8