Description
A bright, veggie-packed cold pasta salad perfect for summer gatherings or easy meal prep.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) pasta (rotini, fusilli, penne, or farfalle)
- 1 cup bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup zucchini, thinly sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ⅓ cup green onions, sliced
- ¼ cup pepperoncini or banana peppers, sliced (optional)
- 1 cup mixed olives (Kalamata or green), halved
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bite-sized) or cubed
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh herbs (parsley or basil), to taste
- Dressing: ½ cup extra‑virgin olive oil; 1/3 cup red wine (or white wine) vinegar; ½ tsp sea salt; ½ tsp black pepper; ½ tsp dried oregano; optional 2–3 Tbsp pepperoncini brine
Instructions
- Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente (6–10 min). Drain and rinse under cold water until cooled. Drain thoroughly.
- Whisk together dressing ingredients in a large bowl.
- Add pasta to dressing and toss to coat.
- Stir in bell pepper, zucchini, tomatoes, green onions, pepperoncini, olives, mozzarella, Parmesan, and herbs.
- Season to taste with salt and pepper.
- Cover and refrigerate at least 30 minutes (or up to 5 days), tossing once before serving.
Notes
- Make ahead — salad improves after resting in fridge.
- Customize veggies and olives as desired.
- Add reserved dressing before serving if stored long.
- Optional: add grilled chicken, salami, or chickpeas for protein.