This Viral Pasta Salad has taken the internet by storm, becoming a go-to dish for gatherings, picnics, and meal preps. Its vibrant colors, bold flavors, and satisfying texture make it a crowd-pleaser. Combining fresh vegetables, hearty pasta, and a tangy dressing, this salad is both delicious and versatile.
Full Recipe:
1 lb tri-color rotini pasta (or your preferred pasta shape)
1 large cucumber, diced
8 oz cherry tomatoes, halved
1 red onion, finely diced
1 cup shredded carrots
½ cup green olives, quartered
¼ to ⅓ cup Olive Garden Signature Italian Dressing
1 tbsp seasoning salt (or to taste)
Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the tri-color rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
Prepare the Vegetables: While the pasta is cooling, dice the cucumber, halve the cherry tomatoes, finely dice the red onion, and shred the carrots. Quarter the green olives.
Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, diced cucumber, halved cherry tomatoes, diced red onion, shredded carrots, and quartered green olives.
Add Dressing and Seasoning: Pour the Olive Garden Signature Italian Dressing over the salad mixture. Sprinkle the seasoning salt over the top.
Toss and Chill: Toss all ingredients together until well combined and evenly coated with the dressing. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight, to allow flavors to meld.
Serve: Give the salad a final toss before serving. Enjoy as a refreshing side dish or a light main course.
Calories: Approximately 250 kcal
Protein: 6g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fat: 10g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 4g