Layered Pasta Salad: A Fresh Twist on Comfort Food
Layered Pasta Salad is a delightful dish bursting with vibrant flavors, perfect for warm days and gatherings.
Equipment
- large pot
- mixing bowl
- whisk
- spatula
Ingredients
For the Salad
- 3 cups cooked pasta Choose whole wheat or gluten-free for a healthier twist
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved Adds sweetness and color
- 1 cup cucumber, diced Provides refreshing crunch
- ½ cup red onion, finely chopped Soak in water for less bite
- ½ cup green bell pepper, diced Adds crunch and color
- ½ cup black olives, sliced Adds salty and briny flavor
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped Adds freshness and brightness
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese Binds the salad together
For the Dressing
- ½ cup Italian dressing Homemade recommended for flavor control
- ¼ cup mayonnaise Alternatively, use Greek yogurt for a lighter option
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar Brightens the dressing
- 1 teaspoon sugar Balances the acidity
- ½ teaspoon salt Enhances flavors
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper Adds a gentle spice
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions for Layered Pasta Salad
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions in boiling salted water until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- Wash and chop the vegetables: halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber, finely chop the red onion, and dice the green bell pepper. Place in a large mixing bowl.
- Add the cooled pasta to the bowl of chopped vegetables and gently mix to combine.
- Fold in the sliced black olives and shredded mozzarella cheese into the mixture.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the Italian dressing, mayonnaise, white vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetable mixture, gently folding to ensure everything is coated.
- Cover and chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least one hour to meld the flavors.
- Before serving, give the salad a final toss to redistribute the dressing and serve.
Notes
Chill the salad for enhanced flavor and freshness. Customize with your favorite ingredients.
Nutrition
Serving: 1servingCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 10gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 1500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 1mg
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