Go Back
If you are looking for a dish that encapsulates the vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients of Mediterranean cuisine, look no further than the Refreshing Mediterranean Breeze Pasta Salad. This delightful dish combines the hearty and satisfying qualities of pasta with the crisp and colorful elements typical of Mediterranean cooking. Imagine twirling rotini pasta around your fork, each bite bursting with the goodness of ripe cherry tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, and a medley of fresh herbs. This salad not only serves as a perfect side dish for summer barbecues but also stands out as a light and healthy main course.

Cold Italian Pasta Salad

Looking for a vibrant and nutritious dish? Try the Refreshing Mediterranean Breeze Pasta Salad! This delightful recipe combines rotini pasta with colorful vegetables like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and bell peppers, all dressed in a simple olive oil and vinegar blend. Packed with flavor and health benefits, this salad is perfect as a light main course or a side for summer barbecues. Enjoy the fresh essence of Mediterranean cuisine and treat your taste buds with every bite!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

12 oz (340 g) rotini pasta (or any pasta of your choice)

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup cucumber, diced

1 cup bell peppers (red, yellow, or green), diced

1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped

1 cup pitted black olives, sliced

1 cup mozzarella balls (ciliegine), halved

1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil

1/4 cup red wine vinegar

1 tsp dried oregano

1/2 tsp garlic powder

Salt and pepper to taste

Optional: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese for garnish

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool completely.

    Prepare the Vegetables: While the pasta is cooling, chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell peppers, and red onion. Place them in a large mixing bowl.

      Add the Olives and Cheese: To the bowl of vegetables, add the sliced black olives and halved mozzarella balls. Mix gently to combine.

        Mix the Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary.

          Combine Pasta and Dressing: Once the pasta has cooled, add it to the bowl with the vegetables. Drizzle the dressing over the pasta and toss everything together until all ingredients are well-coated.

            Add Fresh Herbs: Gently fold in the chopped basil and parsley, being careful not to break the mozzarella balls.

              Chill and Serve: Cover the pasta salad with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. Let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

                Garnish: Before serving, give the pasta salad a quick toss. If desired, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor.

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 minutes | 1 hour | 6 servings