Italian Pasta Salad – Done in 15 Minutes

There’s something incredibly satisfying about biting into a perfectly crafted Italian pasta salad. The combination of tender pasta, fresh vegetables, and rich Italian seasonings is a match made in culinary heaven. The aroma of freshly grated Parmesan and the subtle tang of red wine vinegar wafting through the air is enough to make your stomach growl with anticipation. In just 15 minutes, you can create a dish that’s not only quick but also packs a flavor punch that will leave you wanting more.

If you’re looking for more Italian-inspired dishes, don’t miss our related recipe for Classic Lasagna that’s sure to become a family favorite. With its layered pasta, rich meat sauce, and creamy bechamel, it’s a comforting and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

Why This Recipe Works

• The combination of bow tie pasta, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber creates a refreshing and light flavor profile that’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
• The addition of red onion and garlic adds a punch of flavor and aroma that complements the Italian seasonings.
• The use of mozzarella cheese and Parmesan adds a rich and creamy element to the salad that’s impossible to resist.

Key Ingredients

When it comes to making a great Italian pasta salad, the quality of your ingredients is key. Here’s what you need to focus on:

For the pasta, look for a high-quality bow tie pasta that’s made from durum wheat semolina. This type of pasta has a unique texture and flavor that’s perfect for salads. You can also try using different shapes and colors of pasta to add visual interest to your salad.

For the vegetables, choose fresh and crisp cherry tomatoes and cucumber that are ripe but still firm. You can also use other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, and zucchini to add variety to your salad.

For the cheese, look for a high-quality mozzarella that’s made from fresh milk and has a delicate flavor. You can also use other types of cheese like Parmesan, ricotta, or feta to add different flavors and textures to your salad.

For the seasonings, use a combination of dried oregano, basil, and thyme to add a classic Italian flavor to your salad. You can also use other herbs like parsley, rosemary, or sage to add different flavors and aromas.

Recipe Courtesy of Our Kitchen

Italian Pasta Salad – Done in 15 Minutes

★★★★★ (55 Reviews)

Level:
Easy

Prep:
15 min

Cook:
25 min

Yield:
4 Servings

Ingredients

1 cup bow tie pasta

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup cucumber, sliced

1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced

1/4 cup olive oil

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1 tablespoon red wine vinegar

1 teaspoon dried oregano

Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

1

Cook the bow tie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2

In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and garlic.

3

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, and dried oregano. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss to combine.

4

Season the salad with salt and pepper to taste. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

5

Just before serving, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the salad and toss to combine. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Storage & Reheating

Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the salad in the microwave for 30-60 seconds or until warmed through. You can also reheat the salad in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes or until warmed through.