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As the warm sun casts its golden rays over backyard barbecues and picnics, nothing quite encapsulates the essence of summer gatherings like a vibrant bowl of La Dolce Vita Cold Italian Pasta Salad. This dish is not just a side; it’s a celebration of fresh ingredients and colorful presentation, making it a staple at potlucks, family reunions, and beach outings alike. The combination of tri-color rotini pasta, crisp vegetables, and zesty dressing creates a symphony of flavors that is both refreshing and satisfying, perfect for those hot summer days.

Cold Italian Pasta Salad

Discover the refreshing La Dolce Vita Cold Italian Pasta Salad, the perfect dish for summer gatherings! Bursting with vibrant tri-color rotini, crisp vegetables, and a zesty dressing, this salad is as visually appealing as it is delicious. Easy to prepare in advance and highly adaptable, it’s a fantastic addition to potlucks, picnics, and barbecues. Enjoy this delightful blend of flavors as a light meal or side dish that will impress everyone!
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Ingredients
  

12 oz tri-color rotini pasta

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup cucumber, diced

1 cup bell peppers (red and yellow), diced

1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped

1 cup black olives, sliced

1 cup mozzarella balls (bocconcini), halved

1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped

1/2 cup Italian dressing (store-bought or homemade)

1 tsp dried oregano

Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional: Grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the tri-color rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta.

    Prepare the Vegetables: While the pasta is cooling, chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell peppers, and red onion. Slice the black olives and halve the mozzarella balls.

      Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, chopped vegetables, black olives, mozzarella balls, and fresh basil.

        Dress the Salad: Pour the Italian dressing over the pasta and vegetables. Sprinkle in the dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Gently toss everything together until all ingredients are well mixed and coated in the dressing.

          Chill: Cover the salad with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

            Serve: Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir. If desired, garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and additional fresh basil. Enjoy cold!

              Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes | Servings: 6-8