Refreshing salad combines pasta, veggies, cheese, and Italian dressing for a light summer meal.
# What You'll Need:
→ Pasta
01 - 8 oz short pasta such as fusilli, rotini, or penne
→ Vegetables
02 - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
03 - 1 cup cucumber, diced
04 - 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
05 - 1/4 cup red onion, finely sliced
06 - 1/4 cup black olives, sliced
→ Cheese
07 - 1/2 cup mozzarella balls (bocconcini), halved
→ Dressing
08 - 1/3 cup Italian dressing
09 - 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
10 - 1 teaspoon dried oregano
11 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
# Step-by-Step Guide:
01 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add short pasta and cook until al dente according to package directions. Drain thoroughly and rinse under cold water to stop cooking. Set aside.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, combine halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, diced red bell pepper, finely sliced red onion, sliced black olives, and halved mozzarella balls.
03 - Fold the cooled pasta into the vegetable and cheese mixture, ensuring even distribution.
04 - Pour Italian dressing over salad. Add chopped parsley and dried oregano. Toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
05 - Adjust seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
