Italian Garden Salad 🥗

Overview:

Indulge in the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean with this delightful Italian Garden Salad recipe! 🇮🇹 Perfect for spring and summer gatherings or a quick weekday meal, this refreshing salad is bursting with fresh vegetables and tossed in a zesty dressing that will tantalize your taste buds. With just 10 minutes of cooking time and 30 minutes of preparation, this recipe is quick and easy, making it ideal for beginner cooks and seasoned chefs alike. So, let’s dive into the garden and whip up this flavorful salad sensation! 🌱☀️

Ingredients:

8 medium carrots
1 large green bell pepper
1/4 cup broccoli florets
2 tablespoons black olives
1 cup cherry tomatoes
1/2 cup Salad Dressing
3/4 pound Rotini pasta

Nutrition Facts (per serving):

Calories: 109.7
Fat: 0.8g
Saturated Fat: 0.1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 39.3mg
Carbohydrates: 21.7g
Fiber: 1.5g
Sugar: 1.7g
Protein: 4g

Instructions:

Cook Rotini: Prepare the Rotini pasta according to the package instructions. Cook until al dente for optimal texture.
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Chop Vegetables: While the pasta is cooking, wash and chop the carrots, green bell pepper, and cherry tomatoes. Slice the black olives and measure out the broccoli florets.
Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked Rotini pasta with the chopped vegetables – carrots, green bell pepper, broccoli florets, black olives, and cherry tomatoes.
Add Dressing: Drizzle the Salad Dressing over the salad ingredients. Toss well to ensure that all the vegetables and pasta are evenly coated with the dressing.
Marinate: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the salad for at least one hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and enhances the taste of the salad.
Serve and Enjoy: Once chilled and marinated, serve your Italian Garden Salad on a platter or individual plates. Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy the burst of flavors and the crispness of the vegetables with every bite! 🌿🍅

Recipe Notes:

Customization: Feel free to customize this salad with your favorite vegetables or add-ons. Try adding sliced cucumber, red onion, or feta cheese for extra flavor and texture.
Make Ahead: This salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just give it a good toss before serving to redistribute the dressing.
Gluten-Free Option: For a gluten-free version, substitute the Rotini pasta with your favorite gluten-free pasta variety.
Presentation: Serve this vibrant salad in a large bowl for gatherings or pack it into individual mason jars for a portable lunch option. It’s as visually appealing as it is delicious!

Gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let’s create a taste of Italy in your own kitchen with this mouthwatering Italian Garden Salad recipe! 🥕🥒🍅 Buon appetito!