pasta salad rotini recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
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The Best pasta salad rotini recipe

I’m so excited to share this pasta salad rotini recipe with you, it’s one of my family’s favorite dishes and for good reason. This recipe has been a staple in our household for years, and it’s perfect for any occasion whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The best part about this recipe is that it’s incredibly easy to make and can be customized to your taste.

My kids love helping me make it because they get to pick out their favorite vegetables and cheeses to add in. I’ve tried making it with different types of pasta, but rotini is definitely my favorite. It holds onto the sauce perfectly and makes each bite feel like a treat.

I’ve also found that using whole wheat pasta adds an extra layer of nutrition that we all appreciate. When I’m short on time, I love knowing that I can whip up a batch of this pasta salad rotini in no time and still have everyone leave the table feeling satisfied. One of the reasons I love this recipe so much is that it’s so versatile – you can add in whatever vegetables and cheese you like, making it perfect for any dietary need or preference.

My kids are always asking for seconds, and I love knowing that they’re getting a healthy dose of veggies in their meal. Plus, it’s just so easy to customize to your taste – if you like a little heat, add some red pepper flakes; if you prefer a creamier sauce, try adding some Greek yogurt. The possibilities are endless!

The key to making this recipe shine is to use high-quality ingredients – fresh veggies, good cheese, and of course, the right type of pasta. Don’t be afraid to get creative with your toppings either – try adding some chopped nuts or seeds for added crunch or some dried herbs for extra flavor.

Pasta Salad Rotini Recipe

4.9 from 1722 votes

This pasta salad rotini recipe is a delightful medley of rotini pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and a tangy vinaigrette. It’s a perfect dish for summer picnics or potlucks, and it’s easy to make ahead of time.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time10 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time30 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

Pasta and Vegetables

8 oz rotini pasta
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
1/2 cup pitted black olives, sliced
1/2 red onion, finely chopped

Vinaigrette

1/4 cup olive oil
2 tbsp red wine vinegar
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tsp honey
1 tsp dried oregano
salt and pepper to taste

👨‍🍳Directions

1Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat.
2Add rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes.
3Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
4Drain the pasta in a colander and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down.
Set aside.
5While the pasta is cooking, prepare the vinaigrette.
6In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, dried oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined.
7Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
8In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and cooled rotini pasta, cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, sliced olives, and finely chopped red onion.
9Pour the vinaigrette over the pasta and vegetable mixture.
10Gently toss everything together until well coated.
11Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
12Before serving, give the pasta salad a quick stir.
13Taste and add more salt and pepper if needed.
14Serve chilled, garnished with additional olives or cherry tomatoes if desired.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Colander
Large mixing bowl
Whisk

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 2.5g❤️Cholesterol: 0mg🧂Sodium: 550mg🌾Total Carbs: 40g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 8g

📝Notes

Tips: For a heartier salad, add grilled chicken or chickpeas. You can also substitute different vegetables based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

Watch Video Of How Pasta Salad Rotini Recipe Works

Pasta salad rotini is a versatile and delicious dish that is perfect for any occasion. It is a great way to incorporate a variety of vegetables and proteins into one meal, making it a balanced and nutritious option. I always make extra because it keeps well in the fridge and can be served chilled or at room temperature.

It is also a dish that can be customized to suit individual tastes, making it a crowd-pleaser at family gatherings and potlucks. One final tip is to always taste and adjust the seasoning before serving. You can add more salt, pepper, or olive oil to enhance the flavors.

It is a dish that the whole family will enjoy, and it is a great way to introduce kids to cooking. It is always a good idea to have this dish in your recipe repertoire because it is easy to make, delicious, and can be customized to suit any occasion. It is a dish that is always a hit, and I am sure that you will love it as much as I do.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Pasta Salad Rotini

1. What type of pasta should I use?

This recipe works best with rotini pasta, but feel free to experiment with other shapes like penne or farfalle if you prefer.

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! This recipe makes great leftovers, so go ahead and make it up to a day in advance if needed.

3. How do I store leftover pasta salad?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

4. Can I freeze this recipe?

Yes! Freeze leftovers for up to 3 months – simply thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

5

How do I reheat leftover pasta salad? Simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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