Classic Pasta Salad (for a crowd) is a colorful, refreshing dish made with tender pasta, crisp vegetables, cheese cubes, olives, and a tangy olive oil dressing. It is perfect for potlucks, cookouts, and large gatherings where a generous bowl of food is needed.
Ingredients
2 pounds rotini or fusilli pasta
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
2 cups diced cucumbers
1½ cups chopped bell peppers
1 cup sliced black olives
1 cup diced mozzarella or cheddar cheese
½ cup thinly sliced red onion
½ cup chopped fresh parsley
Dressing:
¾ cup olive oil
⅓ cup red wine vinegar
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
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Cook pasta according to package directions until tender.
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Drain and rinse briefly with cool water.
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Allow pasta to cool for several minutes.
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Slice tomatoes, dice cucumbers, chop peppers, and slice onion.
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In a bowl whisk olive oil, vinegar, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
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Place cooled pasta in a large mixing bowl.
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Add vegetables, olives, cheese, and parsley.
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Pour most of the dressing over the mixture and toss gently.
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Taste and add remaining dressing if needed.
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Cover and refrigerate at least one hour before serving.
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Stir again before serving.