Ingredients for Best Ever Pasta Salad
- 1 pound small shell pasta
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup diced cooked chicken or ham
- 1 cup diced cooked chicken or ham
- 1 green bell pepper
- Celery (quantity not specified in recipe)
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
- Black Olives (quantity not specified in recipe)
- Green Olives (quantity not specified in recipe)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
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How to Make Best Ever Pasta Salad
- Cook 1 pound of pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool completely.
- While the pasta cooks, prepare the vegetables: Chop 1 cup of cherry or grape tomatoes in half, 1/2 cup of red onion into thin slices, 1 green bell pepper into 1/2-inch pieces, and 1/2 cup of chopped fresh basil.
- Prepare the protein and cheese: Dice 1 cup of cooked chicken or ham into bite-sized pieces and shred 1 cup of mozzarella cheese.
- In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup olive oil, 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chopped vegetables, meat, and cheese. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat evenly.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld. This step is crucial for the best taste!
- Serve chilled and enjoy!
Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)
Sodium
27 g
Sugar
8g
Fat
27g
Carbs
10g
