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Classic Summer BBQ Pasta Salad

A white bowl filled with colorful, fresh Pasta Salad featuring fusilli pasta, chopped tomatoes, cucumbers, and black olives.
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This recipe provides a simple, refreshing pasta salad perfect for potlucks, BBQs, or as a make-ahead side dish.

Ingredients

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  • 1 pound rotini or penne pasta
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 large cucumber, seeded and diced
  • 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 1/2 cup Italian vinaigrette dressing (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse immediately with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down. Drain thoroughly.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and black olives.
  3. Pour the Italian vinaigrette dressing over the pasta and vegetable mixture. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
  4. Stir in the fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese, if using.
  5. Season with salt and pepper to your preference.
  6. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Notes

  • For best flavor, make this pasta salad at least 2 hours ahead of time.
  • If preparing more than 12 hours in advance, store the dressing separately and toss just before serving to prevent the pasta from absorbing all the liquid.
  • Use a sturdy pasta shape that holds up well when chilled, like rotini or fusilli.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://delishdiarist.com/pasta-salad-classic-summer-bbq-recipe/