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–+ servings
Italian Pasta Salad

Delicious Italian Pasta Salad for Quick Summer Picnics

A refreshing Italian Pasta Salad packed with vibrant colors and flavors, perfect for summer picnics.
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Prep Time 13 minutes
Cook Time 9 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 52 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizers
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 8 oz Tri-Color Rotini Can substitute with any favorite pasta shape.
  • 1 cup Kraft's Zesty Italian Dressing Homemade Italian dressing works as well.
  • 1 tsp Italian Seasoning Fresh herbs can elevate the taste.
  • 1 tbsp Sweet Basil Optional.
  • 1 tsp Onion Powder Diced yellow onion can be substituted.
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder Fresh garlic cloves can enhance flavor.
  • 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Nutritional yeast can be a vegan alternative.
Optional Add-ins
  • 1/2 cup Sliced Olives Choose black or green.
  • 1 cup Cubed Colby Jack Cheese Can swap with cheddar.
  • 1/2 cup Mini Pepperoni Omit for a meat-free option.
  • 1 cup Sliced Green Pepper Can substitute with any favorite crunchy veggie.
  • 1/2 cup Sliced Onion Scallions can be used for a milder flavor.
  • 1 cup Cherry or Grape Tomatoes Sundried tomatoes can also be used.
  • 1 cup Mini Croutons Optional but adds crunch.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Colander
  • large mixing bowl
  • spoon or spatula

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the tri-color rotini and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 7-9 minutes.
  2. Drain the pasta in a colander and rinse under cold running water for about 30 seconds to cool it down.
  3. Pour the Kraft’s Zesty Italian dressing over the cooled tri-color rotini in the mixing bowl and stir gently to coat.
  4. Sprinkle Italian seasoning, sweet basil, onion powder, and garlic powder over the dressed pasta and mix until well distributed.
  5. Add grated Parmesan cheese and any optional add-ins, gently mixing to preserve textures.
  6. Serve immediately or cover and refrigerate for about 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 8gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 250mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg

Notes

To avoid dry pasta, add dressing just before serving if made ahead. Enjoy within 3 days of refrigeration.

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