• May 31, 2023
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Quick and Easy Italian Pasta Salad

Transport your taste buds to Italy with this vibrant and refreshing Italian pasta salad. Bursting with the flavors of fresh and crunchy broccoli, zucchini, tomatoes, bell pepper, red onion, and parsley, this delightful dish is a true celebration of Mediterranean cuisine.

• 8 ingredients
• 15 minutes
• 8 Servings

Ingredients

4 cups cooked pasta
2 cups broccoli, blanched and cut into bite-sized pieces
1 cup zucchini, sliced
1/2 cup red bell pepper, thinly sliced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/2 to 3/4 cup light or reduced-fat Italian salad dressing (adjust to your preference)

Directions

1. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, blanched broccoli, sliced zucchini, red bell pepper strips, cherry tomatoes, and chopped fresh red onion and parsley.
2. Pour the light or reduced-fat Italian salad dressing over the ingredients.
3. Gently toss the salad until all the ingredients are well coated with the dressing.
4. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the pasta salad for about 30 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld together and the salad to chill.
5. After refrigeration, give the salad a final toss to redistribute the dressing.
6. Serve and enjoy your vibrant and refreshing Italian pasta salad with the delightful addition of parsley.

Notes

Cook the pasta al dente: It's important to cook the pasta until it's al dente, which means it's cooked but still slightly firm to the bite. Overcooked pasta can become mushy and affect the texture of the salad.

Blanch the broccoli properly: To blanch the broccoli, briefly cook it in boiling water, then immediately transfer it to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. This helps to retain its vibrant green color and crisp texture. Make sure not to overcook the broccoli, as it should still have a slight crunch.

Add variety with vegetables: Feel free to add additional vegetables of your choice. Sliced black olives or grated carrots are popular options that can add more color and flavor to the salad.

Dressing to taste: The amount of dressing can be adjusted based on your personal preference. Start with the recommended quantity and add more if desired. You can also experiment with different types of Italian dressing or create your own homemade dressing for a personalized touch.

Let it chill: Allowing the pasta salad to chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving enhances the flavors and allows the dressing to permeate the ingredients. It also gives the salad a refreshing and cool temperature.

Garnish before serving: Just before serving, consider garnishing the pasta salad with some freshly chopped herbs like basil or green onion. This adds a touch of freshness and enhances the overall presentation.

Customization: Feel free to customize the salad according to your preferences. You can add protein such as grilled chicken, shrimp, or chunks of mozzarella cheese to make it a heartier main course. Don't be afraid to experiment and make it your own!

Nutrition Detail