Are you looking for a quick, easy, and incredibly delicious side dish or light meal? Look no further! This Good Seasons Pasta Salad recipe is a summer classic, perfect for picnics, barbecues, or a simple weeknight dinner. It’s bursting with fresh flavors and requires minimal effort, making it a favorite among busy cooks and seasoned chefs alike. This recipe elevates the classic Italian dressing mix to a whole new level of deliciousness. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this crowd-pleasing pasta salad!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound pasta (rotini, farfalle, or your favorite shape)
- 1 packet Good Seasons Italian Dressing Mix
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup bell pepper (any color), diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
Instructions:
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Cook the Pasta: Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking. Set aside to cool.
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Prepare the Dressing: In a large bowl, whisk together the Good Seasons Italian Dressing Mix, vegetable oil, and water until well combined and the dressing is smooth. This is where the magic happens! The pre-made mix saves so much time and adds fantastic flavor.
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Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, and black olives to the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.
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Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This step is crucial for a truly delicious pasta salad. Before serving, stir gently and add the mozzarella cheese (if using).
Tips for the Best Pasta Salad:
- Pasta Choice: While rotini and farfalle hold the dressing well, feel free to experiment with other pasta shapes. Avoid long, thin noodles as they can get soggy.
- Fresh Vegetables: Using fresh, high-quality vegetables will significantly enhance the taste of your pasta salad.
- Add Protein: To make this a more substantial meal, add grilled chicken, chickpeas, or salami.
- Customize it: Feel free to add other vegetables you enjoy, such as broccoli florets, carrots, or zucchini. Consider adding some chopped fresh herbs like basil or oregano for an extra layer of flavor.
- Make it Ahead: This pasta salad is even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prepping.
Variations:
- Greek Pasta Salad: Substitute the Italian dressing mix with a Greek dressing mix and add Kalamata olives, feta cheese, and chopped fresh parsley.
- Creamy Pasta Salad: Add a 1/2 cup of mayonnaise or sour cream to the dressing for a richer, creamier texture.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Fat: 15-20g
- Protein: 7-10g
- Carbohydrates: 35-40g
This Good Seasons Pasta Salad recipe is a simple yet delicious way to enjoy a healthy and satisfying meal. Its versatility allows for endless customization, making it a perfect recipe for any occasion. It’s easy enough for a weeknight dinner, yet impressive enough for a potluck. Enjoy!