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–+ servings
Italian Pasta Salad

Mouthwatering Italian Pasta Salad Ready in Just 30 Minutes

This vibrant Italian Pasta Salad is a quick, customizable dish perfect for summer gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 12 oz Tri-Color Rotini Adds a playful touch and holds onto the dressing well; swap with any preferred pasta shape.
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup Kraft’s Zesty Italian Dressing Brings a delightful tanginess; feel free to replace it with your homemade Italian dressing.
For the Seasoning
  • 1 tbsp Italian Seasoning Enhances the dish with classic Italian flavors.
  • 1 tbsp Sweet Basil Adds a fragrant sweetness.
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder Offers a mild oniony depth.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Provides that iconic savory punch.
For the Cheese
  • 1 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Delivers a creamy, cheesy finish.
For Custom Add-ins
  • 1 cup Sliced Olives Give a briny depth.
  • 1 cup Cubed Colby Jack Cheese Offers a creamy contrast.
  • 1 cup Mini Pepperoni Adds a delightful bite.
  • 1 cup Sliced Green Pepper Brings a fresh crunch.
  • 1 cup Sliced Onion Adds a bit of sharpness.
  • 1 cup Cherry or Grape Tomatoes Sweet bursts of flavor.
  • 1 cup Mini Croutons Provide a crunchy element.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • colander
  • mixing bowl
  • rubber 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 the package instructions, usually around 7–9 minutes, until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, transfer the cooled tri-color rotini and pour in the Kraft’s Zesty Italian dressing. Mix thoroughly to coat the pasta.
  3. Add the Italian seasoning, sweet basil, onion powder, and garlic powder to the bowl. Stir well to incorporate all spices.
  4. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the salad and gently fold into the mixture.
  5. Incorporate any of your favorite add-ins like olives or cherry tomatoes. Mix well to ensure even distribution.
  6. Cover with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for about 30 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 9gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 450mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 250IUVitamin C: 4mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Allow salad to chill for maximum flavor. Adjust dressing if too much is absorbed over time.

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