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Layered Pasta Salad

Layered Pasta Salad: A Colorful Delight for Your Table

Layered Pasta Salad is a vibrant, delicious dish, perfect for any occasion, combining fresh ingredients in a comforting meal.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 3 cups cooked pasta make sure it's al dente for the best texture.
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved, their sweetness complements the tangy dressing perfectly.
  • 1 cup cucumber diced, adds a refreshing crunch to every bite.
  • ½ cup red onion finely chopped, provides a sharp bite that balances the flavors.
  • ½ cup green bell pepper diced, contributes a sweet and slightly bitter note.
  • ½ cup black olives sliced, brings a rich, briny flavor to the salad.
  • ¼ cup fresh parsley chopped, brightens the dish with a touch of freshness.
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese adds creaminess to the layered pasta salad.
For the Dressing
  • ½ cup Italian dressing the key ingredient that ties everything together.
  • ¼ cup mayonnaise creates a creamy texture that enhances the overall flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon white vinegar adds a tangy lift to balance the richness.
  • 1 teaspoon sugar helps to mellow the acidity of the vinegar.
  • ½ teaspoon salt enhances all the ingredients for a balanced taste.
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper gives a subtle heat that elevates the dish.

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Colander
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Whisk
  • spatula

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook the Pasta: Boil salted water and cook pasta until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and cool.
  2. Prepare the Vegetables: Chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and green bell pepper. Add to cooled pasta.
  3. Add Olives and Cheese: Mix in black olives and parsley. Top with mozzarella cheese and gently fold together.
  4. Whisk the Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together dressing ingredients until combined.
  5. Combine Dressing and Salad: Pour dressing over pasta and vegetables. Toss to coat well.
  6. Chill the Salad: Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour for flavors to meld.
  7. Final Toss Before Serving: Toss the salad gently again before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 34gProtein: 10gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 670mgPotassium: 420mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Always use fresh vegetables for the best flavor and texture. Allowing the salad to chill helps meld the flavors beautifully.

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