Rotelle Salad(A Pasta Salad)
Rotelle Salad is a vibrant and refreshing pasta salad that combines the chewy texture of Rotelle pasta with the crispness of broccoli and the sweetness of cherry tomatoes. Tossed in a zesty olive oil dressing with hints of basil and garlic, it's perfect for summer gatherings or as a light meal option.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and parsley and set aside.
- Cook Rotelle as directed on package, adding broccoli during last 5 minutes of cooking.
- Drain and rinse in cold water to stop cooking process.
- Toss Rotelle-broccoli with olive oil dressing until well coated.
- Add tomatoes, green onions, and cheese and toss again.
- Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Ripe olives can be added, if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using fresh basil instead of dried. If you want a creamier texture, you can substitute half of the olive oil with mayonnaise. Feel free to experiment with different vegetables; bell peppers or zucchini work well. Ripe olives can enhance the dish's flavor profile, so consider adding them for an extra twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Rotelle Salad chilled or at room temperature as a refreshing side dish for grilled meats or sandwiches. It pairs beautifully with Pizza or Italian Vegetable Pizzas for a complete meal. Consider topping it with additional grated Parmesan for extra richness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in the microwave, adding a splash of olive oil to prevent drying out. This salad can also be enjoyed cold, making it a perfect make-ahead dish for gatherings.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Rotelle Salad(A Pasta Salad) contains roughly 445 calories, with 19g protein, 46g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (142% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (73% of the Daily Value), and potassium (60% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1163mg per serving (51% 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 salad ahead of time?
Yes, this salad can be made a day in advance. Just keep the dressing separate until you're ready to serve to prevent the pasta from becoming soggy. Toss everything together before serving for the best flavor and texture.
What can I substitute for Rotelle pasta?
If you can't find Rotelle, you can substitute with any short pasta like fusilli or penne. These shapes hold up well with the dressing and mix nicely with the vegetables.
Is this salad suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this Rotelle Salad is entirely vegetarian! It features fresh vegetables and can be made vegan by omitting the Parmesan cheese or substituting it with a plant-based alternative.
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).