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–+ servings
California Pasta Salad

California Pasta Salad: Your Must-Try Vibrant Summer Dish

California Pasta Salad is a vibrant dish filled with fresh vegetables, creamy cheese, and zesty dressing, perfect for summer gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces Rotini Pasta Swap for gluten-free pasta if preferred.
For the Veggies
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes Heirloom tomatoes offer a unique twist.
  • 1 cup Cucumber Consider bell peppers for an extra pop of color.
  • 1/2 cup Red Onion Soaking in cold water can mellow its bite.
  • 1/2 cup Black Olives Kalamata olives elevate the flavor profile beautifully.
  • 1 cup Bell Pepper Feel free to mix colors based on your preference.
For the Cheese
  • 1 cup Sharp Cheddar Cheese Substitute with a vegan cheese for a dairy-free option.
For the Dressing
  • 1/2 cup Italian Salad Dressing Homemade versions let you customize flavors.
For Garnish
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley Basil or cilantro can provide a different aromatic experience.
Additional Seasonings
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Pepper

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • Mixing bowl

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook until al dente, about 10 minutes.
  2. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse it under cold water for a minute or two.
  3. In a sizable mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, black olives, and bell pepper.
  4. Fold in the sharp cheddar cheese to the vegetable and pasta mixture.
  5. Drizzle the Italian dressing over the entire mixture, then gently toss the salad to ensure all ingredients are well coated.
  6. Season your salad with salt and pepper to match your taste preferences. Finish by sprinkling fresh chopped parsley on top.
  7. Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 10gFat: 9gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 350mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 450IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 1mg

Notes

This salad is perfect for meal prep, staying fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. Adjust seasoning before serving as flavors can mellow.

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