This Classic Pasta Salad is the perfect side dish for picnics, barbecues, or weeknight dinners. Packed with colorful vegetables, tender pasta, and a zesty homemade Italian dressing, it's a fresh and vibrant dish that brings everyone to the table. It’s easy to make, can be prepped ahead of time, and is incredibly customizable with your favorite ingredients. Whether served chilled or at room temperature, this pasta salad delivers bold flavor in every bite. Ideal for summer gatherings or potlucks, this timeless recipe is a crowd-pleaser that pairs perfectly with grilled meats or sandwiches.

Ingredients
For the Salad:

• 8 ounces rotini pasta (or other short pasta)
  
  

• 1 cup grape tomatoes, halved
  
  

• 1 cup cucumber, chopped
  
  

• ½ cup red bell pepper, diced
  
  

• ¼ cup red onion, diced
  
  

• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
  
  

• ¼ cup sliced black olives
  
  

For the Dressing:

• ½ cup olive oil
  
  

• 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  
  

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  
  

• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
  
  

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  
  

• ½ teaspoon salt
  
  

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  
  

Directions

1. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
   
   

2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, grape tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, shredded cheddar, and black olives.
   
   

3. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
   
   

4. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated.
   
   

5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to meld.
   
   

6. Toss again before serving and adjust seasoning if needed.
   
   

Nutritional Information (Estimated per serving, based on 8 servings)

• Calories: 270
  
  

• Fat: 18g
  
  

• Saturated Fat: 4g
  
  

• Carbohydrates: 22g
  
  

• Fiber: 2g
  
  

• Sugar: 3g
  
  

• Protein: 6g
  
  

• Sodium: 330mg