olive garden pasta salad. My take on this classic is pure comfort food with a homemade touch, perfect for potlucks, picnics, or a simple weeknight meal. This salad brings back memories of family gatherings and sunny afternoons. The tangy dressing, the colorful veggies, and the perfectly cooked pasta create a symphony of flavors that everyone loves. I’ve tweaked the recipe to make it even easier and more flavorful, ensuring that your olive garden pasta salad will be a crowd pleaser every time. It’s a dish I am always being asked to bring!
Why You Will Love This olive garden pasta salad Recipe
This olive garden pasta salad is a winner for so many reasons. It’s quick, easy, and bursting with flavor. It’s a fantastic way to use up leftover vegetables, making it both budget friendly and eco conscious. Speaking of quick, it comes together in less than 30 minutes.
Plus, it’s completely customizable to your taste preferences. Add your favorite veggies, swap out the cheeses, or adjust the dressing to create a unique version that’s all your own.
One of my favorite memories involving this salad was when I introduced it to my skeptical cousin, who was convinced he hated pasta salad. He ended up having three helpings! It’s the perfect side dish to pair with grilled chicken or enjoy on its own for a light lunch.
- 1 pound rotini pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup bell pepper (I like a mix of red, yellow and orange), diced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/2 cup Italian dressing (store bought, or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make This olive garden pasta salad Recipe
- 1. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. This prevents the pasta from becoming mushy.
- 2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, black olives, cucumber, red onion, and bell pepper.
- 3. In a small bowl, whisk together the Italian dressing, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, and garlic powder. Season with salt and pepper to taste. I usually add a little extra oregano because I love the flavor.
- 4. Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetables. Add the Parmesan cheese and feta cheese. Toss gently to combine. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the salad mushy.
- 5. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. This step is crucial! The longer it sits, the better it tastes.
This olive garden pasta salad is incredibly versatile, and it pairs well with a variety of dishes.
Serve it chilled as a side dish at barbecues, picnics, or potlucks. It’s excellent alongside grilled chicken, burgers, or sandwiches. Sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top for an added touch of flavor and visual appeal.
For a lighter meal, serve it on a bed of fresh lettuce with a sprinkle of extra feta cheese. It also makes a fantastic addition to any salad bar. The vibrant colors and fresh flavors make it a welcome addition to any table.
How to Store This olive garden pasta salad Recipe
Store leftover olive garden pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3-5 days. Be sure to eat leftovers before they expire!
Freezing is not recommended, as the pasta and vegetables may become mushy upon thawing.
When reheating, there is no need to reheat, as this salad is best served cold. Stir well before serving, as the dressing may settle at the bottom.
Tips to Make This olive garden pasta salad Recipe
- Ingredient Swaps: Feel free to swap out your favorite vegetables. Artichoke hearts, sun dried tomatoes, or roasted red peppers would all be delicious additions.
- Success Tips: Don’t overcook the pasta. Al dente pasta holds its shape better in the salad.
- Common Mistakes to Avoid: Avoid adding too much dressing at once. Add gradually, tossing until everything is lightly coated. You can always add more, but you can’t take it away.
- Pro Tips for Best Results: For the best flavor, make the salad a day in advance. This allows the flavors to fully meld together.
The quality of the Italian dressing significantly impacts the flavor of this olive garden pasta salad. Use a high quality store bought dressing or make your own with olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic, herbs, and Dijon mustard.
If you’re using store bought dressing, be sure to taste it before adding it to the salad. Some brands can be too sweet or too acidic. Adjust the flavor by adding a little extra red wine vinegar or a pinch of sugar, as needed.
For an extra layer of flavor, try grilling the bell peppers before adding them to the salad. This adds a smoky sweetness that complements the other ingredients. If you enjoy spicy food, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing.
Variation of This olive garden pasta salad Recipe
- Seasonal Twists: In the summer, add grilled corn and fresh basil. In the fall, add roasted butternut squash and dried cranberries.
- Optional Versions: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a heartier meal.
- Creative Modifications: Use different types of pasta, such as farfalle or penne. Experiment with different cheeses, such as mozzarella or provolone.
This olive garden pasta salad is more than just a side dish; it’s a celebration of fresh flavors and simple ingredients. Whether you’re whipping it up for a summer barbecue or a cozy weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress. Don’t be afraid to get creative and make it your own. Need more tasty salad inspiration? Be sure to try this refreshing Dense Bean Salad Recipe. Give it a try and let me know what you think! Follow us on Pinterest for more recipe inspiration. This would also pair nicely with this Heart Shaped Caprese Salad. For more recipes visit Www.makourirecipes.com. I hope you enjoy the olive garden pasta salad!
What is the secret to the best Olive Garden pasta salad?
The key is the homemade dressing! Using high-quality ingredients and getting the right balance of tangy and sweet flavors will elevate your copycat recipe.
What kind of pasta is best for Olive Garden style pasta salad?
Rotini pasta is the most authentic choice for Olive Garden pasta salad. Its corkscrew shape holds the dressing and vegetables perfectly.
Can I make Olive Garden pasta salad ahead of time?
Yes, this salad is perfect for making ahead! In fact, the flavors meld together even better after it sits in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight. Just give it a good stir before serving.
What are the best vegetables to include in Olive Garden pasta salad?
The classic Olive Garden version includes black olives, red onions, tomatoes, and pepperoncini. Feel free to add other favorites like cucumbers or bell peppers for a personalized touch.
