How To Make Zesty Italian Dressing Pasta Salad: Classic Italian Pasta Salad Recipe

mozzarella balls

🥗Healthier: feta cheese

💰Cheaper: cubed cheddar

Feta adds a tangy flavor while cheddar is more affordable.

olive oil

🥗Healthier: avocado oil

💰Cheaper: vegetable oil

Avocado oil is healthier, while vegetable oil is budget-friendly.

black olives

🥗Healthier: green olives

💰Cheaper: canned olives

Green olives offer a different taste, while canned olives are often less expensive.

Parmesan cheese

🥗Healthier: nutritional yeast

💰Cheaper: grated cheese blend

Nutritional yeast is dairy-free, while a blend can cut costs.

Fill a large pot with cool water and salt, then place it over high heat.

Once the water comes to a boil, add the pasta and boil for 10 minutes, then strain the water, rinse the pasta with cool water, and set aside.

Meanwhile, peel the cucumbers and onions, then chop them into small pieces.

Slice the Broccoli stalk as high as possible, then break off individual broccoli pieces and slice into small florets, then blanch them. To blanch them, bring a large pot of water to a boil, then turn off the heat. Then place the broccoli in a strainer, and dip it into water for 20-30 seconds.

Slice the grape tomatoes into pieces of 3.

Add the chopped vegetables to the dressing, then stir well again.

Add in the dressing and toss well.

Lastly, add the seasonings and cheese to the bowl and stir until well combined.

Cover with plastic wrap, then refrigerate to chill.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary

Allergens