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As the sun shines brightly and the temperature rises, summer dining calls for dishes that are not only delicious but also refreshing and easy to prepare. One standout option for summer gatherings, picnics, and barbecues is pasta salad. This versatile dish can be made with a variety of ingredients, allowing for endless creativity while catering to diverse tastes. Among the myriad of pasta salad options, the Vibrant Summer Italian Pasta Salad stands out as a quintessential choice that embodies the flavors of Italy, making it a perfect companion for sunny days and social occasions.

Cold Italian Pasta Salad

Brighten up your summer gatherings with a Vibrant Summer Italian Pasta Salad! This refreshing dish combines fusilli pasta with sweet cherry tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, colorful bell peppers, and creamy mozzarella balls, all tossed in a zesty dressing. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or casual family dinners, it's both visually appealing and packed with flavor. Explore its versatility by adding your favorite seasonal veggies or proteins for a delightful meal that everyone will love!
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Ingredients
  

12 oz (340g) fusilli pasta

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cucumber, diced

1 bell pepper (any color), diced

1/2 red onion, finely chopped

1 cup black olives, pitted and sliced

1 cup mozzarella balls (bocconcini), halved

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

3 tablespoons red wine vinegar

1 teaspoon dried oregano

Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the fusilli pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool completely.

    Prepare the Vegetables: While the pasta is cooling, prepare your vegetables. Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber, and bell pepper, and finely chop the red onion. Set aside in a large mixing bowl.

      Combine Ingredients: Once the pasta is cool, add it to the vegetable mixing bowl. Also, add the sliced olives, mozzarella balls, grated Parmesan cheese, and chopped basil.

        Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined.

          Dress the Salad: Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetable mixture. Toss gently until everything is well combined and coated with the dressing.

            Chill and Serve: Cover the salad with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

              Garnish (Optional): Just before serving, you can add a few more fresh basil leaves on top for presentation and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese if desired.

                Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes | Servings: 6-8