Go Back
As the days grow longer and the temperatures rise, summer invites us to enjoy lighter, refreshing meals that celebrate the season's bounty. Among the many culinary delights that shine during this time, pasta salads stand out for their versatility, ease of preparation, and ability to showcase fresh ingredients. Whether served at a backyard barbecue, a picnic in the park, or a casual family dinner, a well-crafted pasta salad can elevate any gathering.

Cold Italian Pasta Salad

Discover the vibrant flavors of summer with the Summer Sunset Pasta Salad! This colorful dish features rotini pasta, fresh vegetables like cherry tomatoes and cucumbers, and aromatic herbs, all tossed in a zesty dressing. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or family dinners, this light and refreshing pasta salad is a crowd-pleaser that showcases the best of seasonal produce. Enjoy a nutritious meal that celebrates summer's bounty and delights your taste buds.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

12 oz (340g) rotini pasta

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup cucumber, diced

½ cup red bell pepper, diced

½ cup black olives, sliced

1 cup mozzarella balls (bocconcini), halved

½ cup red onion, thinly sliced

½ cup fresh basil leaves, torn

¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped

½ cup extra virgin olive oil

¼ cup red wine vinegar

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to halt the cooking process and cool it down.

    Prepare the Vegetables: While the pasta cools, wash and chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, black olives, and red onion. Place all chopped vegetables in a large mixing bowl.

      Combine Salad Ingredients: Once the pasta is cooled, add it to the bowl with the vegetables. Incorporate the mozzarella balls, torn basil leaves, and chopped parsley.

        Make the Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until well combined.

          Dress the Salad: Pour the dressing over the pasta salad mixture and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.

            Chill Before Serving: Cover the salad with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

              Serve: After chilling, give the salad a good toss again before serving. You can garnish with more fresh basil or Parmesan cheese if desired.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 45 minutes | 4-6 servings