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Rotini Pasta Salad

Bright and Zesty Rotini Pasta Salad for Summer Gatherings

This Rotini Pasta Salad is a vibrant, refreshing dish perfect for summer gatherings, packed with fresh vegetables and a zesty lemon vinaigrette.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 cups
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 8 ounces Rotini Pasta opt for veggie rotini for added nutrition
  • 2 cups Tomatoes any ripe tomatoes will work beautifully
  • 1 cup Sweet Red Pepper substitute with other bell peppers if desired
  • 1 cup Cucumber zucchini makes a great low-carb alternative
  • 1 cup Zucchini can be omitted if desired
  • ½ cup Red Onion soaking in cold water helps to soften the flavor
  • ½ cup Greek Olives optional for a milder salad
  • 1 cup Feta Cheese goat cheese serves as a tasty substitute
For the Vinaigrette
  • ¼ cup Olive Oil substitute with avocado oil for a twist
  • ¼ cup Lemon Juice fresh lime juice can be used for a twist on flavor
  • 1 tablespoon Balsamic Vinegar apple cider vinegar is a convenient alternative
  • 2 tablespoons Water can be omitted for a thicker consistency
  • 2 cloves Garlic can substitute with garlic powder
  • to taste Salt & Pepper adjust according to your taste preferences
  • 1 tablespoon Fresh Oregano dried oregano works in a pinch

Equipment

  • large pot
  • colander
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Whisk

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Drain well and set aside to cool completely.
  2. In a small mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, balsamic vinegar, and water. Add minced garlic, salt, and pepper to taste, then whisk vigorously until the dressing is well blended and emulsified. Stir in the fresh oregano, releasing its aromatic flavors, and set the vinaigrette aside to let the flavors meld.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled rotini pasta, then gently fold in the chopped tomatoes, sweet red pepper, cucumber, zucchini, red onion, and Greek olives if using.
  4. Pour the prepared vinaigrette over the pasta and vegetables in the mixing bowl. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese on top, then gently toss everything together.
  5. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
  6. Once chilled, give the salad a final toss to redistribute the dressing. Serve the rotini pasta salad on a platter or in individual bowls.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 8gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 350mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 8mgIron: 4mg

Notes

This rotini pasta salad can be customized with different vegetables and proteins based on availability and preference.

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