Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with Judy's Famous Pasta Salad, a vibrant and refreshing dish that’s perfect for any occasion! Whether you're hosting a summer barbecue, a picnic in the park, or simply craving a quick and delicious meal, this pasta salad is sure to impress. With its colorful medley of cherry tomatoes, black olives, and creamy mozzarella, every bite bursts with flavor. Best of all, it comes together in just 30 minutes, making it an easy yet impressive addition to your recipe repertoire. Dive into this article to discover the secrets behind this crowd-pleaser and learn how to whip it up in no time!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, cubed
- 1/4 cup red onion, diced
- 1/4 cup Italian dressing
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and add a pinch of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Add the pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While pasta is cooking, prepare the vegetables. Halve the cherry tomatoes, slice the black olives, dice the red onion, and cube the mozzarella cheese.
- Once pasta is cooked, drain in a colander and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta quickly.
- Transfer the cooled pasta to a large mixing bowl. Add halved cherry tomatoes, sliced black olives, cubed mozzarella, and diced red onion.
- Pour the Italian dressing over the pasta and vegetable mixture. Gently toss to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, mixing thoroughly to distribute the seasoning.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 15-20 minutes to allow flavors to meld together before serving.
- Before serving, give the pasta salad a quick stir and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve chilled.
Tips
- Perfect Pasta: Make sure to cook the pasta until al dente for the best texture. This means it should be firm to the bite, which will hold up better when mixed with the dressing and other ingredients.
- Chill for Flavor: Allow the pasta salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least 15-20 minutes before serving. This resting time helps the flavors meld together beautifully, enhancing the overall taste.
- Customize Your Ingredients: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or proteins! Diced bell peppers, cucumbers, or even grilled chicken can elevate this salad to new heights.
- Dress It Up: If you prefer a creamier dressing, consider mixing in some mayonnaise or Greek yogurt with the Italian dressing for a richer flavor profile.
- Seasoning Matters: Always taste and adjust the seasoning before serving. A little extra salt or pepper can make a big difference in bringing out the flavors.
- Make Ahead: This pasta salad can be made a day in advance. Just keep it covered in the fridge, and it will be ready to serve when you are!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 20mg
