Most Requested Pasta Memorial Day (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
01 -
450 g rotini or bowtie pasta
02 -
170 g cherry tomatoes, halved
03 -
130 g cucumber, diced
04 -
75 g red bell pepper, diced
05 -
70 g black olives, sliced
06 -
65 g red onion, finely chopped
07 -
130 g cheddar or mozzarella cheese, cubed
08 -
60 g salami or pepperoni slices (optional)
09 -
15 g fresh parsley or basil, chopped
→ Dressing
10 -
180 ml Italian dressing
11 -
15 ml Dijon mustard
12 -
15 ml red wine vinegar
13 -
2.5 ml garlic powder
14 -
Salt, to taste
15 -
Black pepper, to taste
# Instructions:
01 -
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water until completely cooled. Drain thoroughly.
02 -
Chop cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, black olives, and red onion. Cube the cheese. Slice salami or pepperoni if using.
03 -
In a mixing bowl, whisk together Italian dressing, Dijon mustard, red wine vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
04 -
In a large serving bowl, combine cooled pasta, prepared vegetables, cubed cheese, optional salami or pepperoni, and chopped fresh parsley or basil.
05 -
Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture. Toss thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.
06 -
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Toss again before serving, and adjust seasoning or add extra dressing if desired.
# Notes:
01 -
Make ahead and refrigerate overnight to enhance the flavours.
02 -
Add additional dressing just before serving if the salad appears dry.
03 -
Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free adaptation.