Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite salad: Olive Garden Pasta Salad! It’s so refreshing and vibrant, bursting with flavor and color, you can’t help but smile with every bite. I remember the first time I made it for a summer picnic, and everyone went wild over it. The combination of perfectly cooked rotini, crisp veggies, and that tangy dressing just sings summer to me! Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, making it my go-to for gatherings or just a cozy night in. Trust me, you’ll want to keep this recipe close!
Ingredients List
- 8 ounces rotini pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Prepare Olive Garden Pasta Salad
Cooking the Pasta
First things first, let’s get that rotini pasta cooking! Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling away, toss in the 8 ounces of rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes. You want it to be al dente, so it has a nice bite to it. When it’s done, drain the pasta in a colander and give it a quick rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. This step is super important to keep it from getting mushy!
Mixing the Salad Ingredients
Now that your pasta is nice and cool, grab a large mixing bowl and add the cooked rotini. Next, throw in those vibrant cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, thinly sliced red onion, black olives, and crumbled feta cheese. I love the colors of this salad—it’s like a party in a bowl! Gently toss everything together so it’s mixed well, but be careful not to squish the tomatoes.
Preparing the Dressing
Let’s whip up that zesty dressing! In a small bowl, combine 1/4 cup of olive oil, 2 tablespoons of red wine vinegar, 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. I like to whisk it together until it’s well blended and a little frothy. Don’t skip this step; the dressing really brings everything to life!
Combining the Dressing and Salad
Now comes the fun part! Pour that delicious dressing all over your salad mixture. Use a spatula or a large spoon to gently toss everything together until the pasta and veggies are evenly coated. You want every bite to be bursting with flavor!
Chilling the Salad
Before serving, it’s crucial to let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This allows all those flavors to meld beautifully together. Trust me, the wait is worth it! Just imagine the refreshing taste waiting for you when it’s time to dig in!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy preparation—perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings!
- Refreshing taste that brightens up any meal, making it a real crowd-pleaser.
- Made with healthy ingredients, so you can enjoy it without any guilt.
- Vegetarian-friendly, making it a great option for all your plant-loving friends.
- Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or as a side dish at family barbecues—everyone will be asking for the recipe!
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make this Olive Garden Pasta Salad even more fabulous! Here are some of my favorite tips to ensure you nail it every time:
- Customize Your Veggies: Don’t be afraid to mix it up! If you’re not a fan of red onion, try using green onions for a milder flavor. Or add bell peppers for a pop of color and crunch!
- Boost the Protein: Want to make this salad a heartier meal? Toss in some grilled chicken or even chickpeas for a delicious protein boost. It’ll keep you feeling full and satisfied!
- Make It Ahead: This salad is perfect for meal prep! You can make it a day in advance—just keep it chilled in the fridge. The flavors will deepen, and when you’re ready to serve, it’ll taste even better!
- Add Fresh Herbs: If you have fresh basil or parsley on hand, chop some up and sprinkle it over the salad right before serving. It adds a lovely freshness that complements the dressing beautifully!
- Perfect the Dressing: Feel free to tweak the dressing to your liking! Want it tangier? Add a splash more vinegar. Prefer it creamier? A dollop of Greek yogurt works wonders!
These little tweaks can elevate your Olive Garden Pasta Salad from good to absolutely amazing. Enjoy experimenting and making this dish your very own!
Nutritional Information
So, let’s talk about what’s packed into this delicious Olive Garden Pasta Salad! Here’s an estimated breakdown of the nutritional values per serving (about 1 cup):
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific brands of ingredients you use or any modifications you make. But overall, this salad is a delightful and nutritious option that’s light yet satisfying. Enjoy every bite guilt-free!
FAQ Section
Got some questions about Olive Garden Pasta Salad? No worries, I’ve got you covered! Here are some of the most common queries I get, along with my best answers to help you enjoy this salad to the fullest.
How should I store the pasta salad?
You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a good toss before serving again, as the dressing may settle a bit!
Can I make this pasta salad a day ahead?
Absolutely! In fact, making it a day in advance allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully. Just keep it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
What can I serve with Olive Garden Pasta Salad?
This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, like chicken or steak. You could also serve it alongside crusty bread or as a side for a hearty Italian dish. It’s super versatile!
Can I add other ingredients to the salad?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative. You can add diced bell peppers, artichoke hearts, or even some spinach for extra greens. The possibilities are endless!
Is this salad gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, simply swap the rotini pasta for a gluten-free pasta alternative. There are so many delicious options available now!
What’s the best way to serve it?
I love serving this salad cold, right out of the fridge. It’s super refreshing that way! If you prefer it at room temperature, just let it sit for about 15 minutes after taking it out before serving.
Can I freeze Olive Garden Pasta Salad?
I wouldn’t recommend freezing it, as the texture of the veggies and pasta can become mushy once thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh or chilled!
Feel free to reach out if you have more questions or need tips! I’m always here to help you make the most of this delightful salad.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving Olive Garden Pasta Salad, the options are endless, and I just love how versatile it is! Here are some of my favorite pairings that really elevate the meal experience:
- Grilled Chicken: A juicy grilled chicken breast seasoned with herbs makes for a perfect protein addition. It complements the salad beautifully and adds heartiness!
- Italian Bread: Serve it alongside some warm, crusty Italian bread or garlic breadsticks. There’s nothing like a bit of bread to soak up all that delicious dressing!
- Marinated Grilled Vegetables: Charred veggies, such as zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant, bring a smoky flavor that pairs wonderfully with the freshness of the salad.
- Caprese Skewers: These easy-to-make skewers with fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomatoes add a delightful bite and a burst of flavor that complements the pasta salad.
- Soup: A light Italian minestrone or a creamy tomato basil soup makes for a comforting starter that goes hand-in-hand with the salad.
- Antipasto Platter: Create a colorful antipasto platter filled with cured meats, cheeses, olives, and artichokes for a delightful spread alongside your pasta salad.
These pairings not only enhance the flavors but also create a beautiful presentation on your table. Whether it’s a picnic, a family dinner, or a casual get-together, these suggestions will surely impress your guests and make your Olive Garden Pasta Salad the star of the show!
Print
Olive Garden Pasta Salad: 5 Reasons You’ll Love It
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A refreshing salad with pasta, vegetables, and a tangy dressing.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces rotini pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, black olives, and feta cheese.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss until evenly coated.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Serve cold or at room temperature.
- Add grilled chicken for a protein boost.
- Adjust vegetables based on preference.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: Olive Garden Pasta Salad