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+ servings
California Pasta Salad

California Pasta Salad: A Colorful, Crunchy Summer Treat

A vibrant California Pasta Salad filled with fresh vegetables and zesty dressing, perfect for summer gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz Bow Tie Pasta any short pasta can be used as a substitute
For the Vegetables
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes or grape tomatoes if not available
  • 1 cup Cucumber can substitute with zucchini or bell pepper
  • 1 cup Bell Peppers mix colors for visual appeal
  • 1/2 cup Red Onion or green onions for a milder flavor
  • 1/2 cup Black Olives Kalamata olives enhance the taste
For the Cheese
  • 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese nutritional yeast is a vegan alternative
For the Dressing
  • 1/2 cup Italian Salad Dressing both store-bought and homemade options are ideal

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Colander
  • cutting board
  • knife
  • mixing bowl
  • Small Bowl
  • large spoon

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add bow tie pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. Chop cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell peppers, red onion, and black olives into bite-sized pieces. Set aside in a mixing bowl.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together Italian salad dressing and grated Parmesan cheese until smooth.
  4. Combine the cooled pasta with the chopped vegetables and pour the dressing over. Toss gently to coat evenly.
  5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to meld flavors. Toss again before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 8gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg

Notes

To enhance flavor integration, chill for at least 30 minutes before serving. Use vibrant peppers for a stunning salad.

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