Marie'S Pasta Salad
A vibrant, flavorful pasta salad featuring fresh vegetables, sliced pepperoni, and Italian dressing, perfect for picnics, parties, or casual gatherings with friends and family.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil the rotini according to the package instructions.
- Cut the broccoli into florets, then blanch in boiling water for 1 minute and drain.
- Slice the green, red, and yellow peppers and the red onion thinly in julienne style.
- Mix the cooked rotini, broccoli, peppers, onion, and sliced pepperoni in a large bowl.
- Add the Wish-Bone lite Italian dressing and toss to coat all ingredients evenly.
- Reserve some pepperoni slices to arrange on top of the salad.
- Refrigerate the salad for several hours to allow flavors to meld.
- Remove the salad from the refrigerator 15 minutes before serving and garnish with reserved pepperoni slices.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider substituting the Wish-Bone lite Italian dressing with a homemade vinaigrette using olive oil, vinegar, and Italian herbs. You can also use other vegetables such as cherry tomatoes or cucumbers if desired. To save time, purchase pre-cut veggies or use frozen broccoli florets. Ensure the rotini is al dente for the best texture.
Serving Suggestions
This pasta salad pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. Serve it alongside garlic bread or a simple green salad for a refreshing touch. It can also be a great dish for potlucks or picnics, offering a vibrant, flavorful option among other Italian recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, enhancing the taste. If you prefer it warm, you can gently reheat the salad in the microwave, but be cautious not to overheat it, as it can make the vegetables soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Marie'S Pasta Salad contains roughly 115 calories, with 3g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (87% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?
Yes, this pasta salad is perfect for making ahead! In fact, letting it sit in the fridge for several hours or overnight allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it even more delicious when served.
What can I substitute for the pepperoni?
If you're looking for a healthier option or a vegetarian version, consider using diced salami, turkey pepperoni, or even chickpeas for protein without the meat. This will still give you great texture and flavor in the salad.
Can I add cheese to this salad?
Absolutely! Adding cheese like feta or mozzarella can enhance the creaminess and flavor of the salad. Just be sure to add it right before serving to keep the texture fresh and appealing.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).