Classic Italian Pasta Salad

This Classic Italian Pasta Salad is a fresh, vibrant dish perfect for summer lunches, potlucks, or quick weeknight meals. Made with simple ingredients like pasta, crisp veggies, and a zesty homemade vinaigrette, it’s flavorful, satisfying, and comes together fast.

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Classic Italian Pasta Salad

This Cucumber, Onion, Garlic, and Dill Salad is a crisp seasonal favorite, perfect for warmer days when you want something light, cooling, and full of flavor.

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Prep Time: 25 min | Servings 5-6

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Salad Ingredients

• 8 oz Tri-Color Rotini or fusilli pasta (or gluten-free if needed)

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1 cup broccoli, halved

• 1 cup cucumber, chopped

• 1/2 cup red bell pepper, chopped

• 1/2 cup black olives, sliced

• 1/3 cup red onion, thinly sliced

• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

• 1/4 cup pepperoncini, sliced (optional)

Dressing Ingredients

1/4 cup olive oil

• 2 tbsp red wine vinegar

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

• 1 tsp maple syrup

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

• 1 clove garlic, finely minced

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta

   Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and rinse under cool water to stop cooking. Set aside.

2. Make the dressing

   In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, maple syrup, garlic, and Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

3. Combine the salad

   In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, tomatoes, cucumber, broccoli, bell pepper, olives, red onion, parsley, and pepperoncini if using.

4. Dress + toss

   Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well to coat everything evenly. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

5. Chill + serve

   Let the salad chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Serve cold or at room temperature.

Nutritional Benefits:

• Cucumber: Hydrating and low in calories; contains antioxidants and supports skin health.
  Red Onion: Rich in quercetin, a powerful antioxidant that supports heart health and reduces inflammation.
  Garlic: Boosts immunity, supports heart health, and has natural antibacterial properties.

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