This California Pasta Salad is a vibrant, crowd-pleasing dish that’s as delicious as it is versatile. Packed with tender pasta, crisp vegetables, creamy cheddar, and tossed in a zesty Italian dressing, it’s perfect for warm-weather get-togethers, light lunches, or quick weeknight meals. Bright, colorful, and full of flavor, this salad is sure to be a hit with friends and family.
Why You’ll Love It
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy schedules.
- Versatile: Swap veggies, change the cheese, or try a dairy-free dressing to suit your preferences.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for potlucks, BBQs, picnics, or meal prep.
- Healthy and Refreshing: Loaded with fresh vegetables, fiber, and protein (with optional add-ins).
Ingredients:
- 12 oz rotini pasta (or your favorite shape)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/2 cup bell pepper, chopped
- 1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese, cubed
- 1/2 cup Italian salad dressing
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- Cook pasta according to package instructions, drain, and rinse under cold water.
- In a large bowl, combine pasta, vegetables, olives, and cheese.
- Pour Italian dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
- Season with salt and pepper, garnish with parsley, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Tips and Variations:
- Add Protein: Toss in grilled chicken, shrimp, tuna, or chickpeas for a complete meal.
- Swap the Cheese: Try feta, mozzarella, or a dairy-free option.
- Use Different Pasta: Bowtie, penne, or gluten-free pasta work beautifully.
- Extra Veggies: Avocado, corn, roasted zucchini, or spinach can boost flavor and nutrition.
- Change the Dressing: Try balsamic, lemon-herb, or a spicy chipotle-lime vinaigrette.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve chilled or at room temperature with grilled meats, sandwiches, or on its own for a refreshing lunch. Pair with fresh herbs for added color and flavor.
Storage:
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Stir before serving and adjust seasoning if needed.
Why It Works:
This salad captures the essence of California cuisine: fresh, seasonal, and flexible. It’s colorful, flavorful, and allows endless customization while staying simple and satisfying. Perfect for casual dinners, parties, or meal prep, it’s a dish everyone will enjoy.