Are you craving that delicious Olive Garden Pasta Salad but don’t want to leave the comfort of your home? Well, you’re in luck! I’m here to share my Olive Garden Copycat Pasta Salad recipe that you can whip up in just 30 minutes. This vibrant and flavorful dish is perfect for quick family dinners, potlucks, or even a light lunch. Plus, it’s one of those easy pasta recipes that everyone will love!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare in just 30 minutes.
- Loaded with fresh vegetables and flavors that pop!
- Perfect for meal prep or as a side dish for any occasion.
- Great for summer barbecues or cozy family dinners.
- Can be customized with your favorite ingredients!
Ingredients
To make this delightful Olive Garden Copycat Pasta Salad, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 12 oz rotini pasta
- 1 cup Italian dressing, preferably Olive Garden Signature Italian Dressing
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup green bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup carrot, grated
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, cubed
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.
How to Make the Recipe
Let’s dive into the steps to create this delicious pasta salad:
- Cook the rotini pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, Italian dressing, and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well to ensure the pasta is well-coated.
- Add the diced red and green bell peppers, red onion, grated carrot, cherry tomatoes, and black olives to the pasta. Toss the mixture gently to ensure even distribution of the vegetables.
- Add the cubed mozzarella cheese to the salad mix. Gently fold the cheese into the salad.
- Sprinkle the Italian seasoning over the pasta salad. Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld together.
- Before serving, give the salad a final toss and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
Here are some helpful suggestions to make your Olive Garden Copycat Pasta Salad even better:
- Feel free to add in your favorite vegetables like cucumbers or artichokes for extra flavor.
- If you want a creamier texture, consider adding a dollop of mayonnaise or sour cream.
- For a protein boost, toss in some grilled chicken or chickpeas.
- Make sure to let the salad chill for at least an hour; this really helps the flavors develop!
How to Serve
This pasta salad is incredibly versatile! You can serve it as a side dish alongside grilled meats or as a light main dish on its own. It’s also perfect for meal prep, making it a great option for weeknight dinner ideas. Pair it with a slice of crusty bread or a refreshing drink, and you have a delightful meal!
Make Ahead and Storage
If you’re planning to make this salad ahead of time, it stores beautifully in the refrigerator. Just keep it in an airtight container, and it will last for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even tastier! Just remember to give it a good toss before serving. This is one of those 30-minute meals that you can prepare in advance and enjoy later.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients and let’s get cooking! And if you’re in the mood for something sweet afterward, don’t forget to check out my Ultimate Chocolate Indulgence Cake or my Moist Chocolate Cake for a perfect dessert to complement your meal. Happy cooking!
Olive Garden Copycat Pasta Salad
Ingredients
Method
- Cook the rotini pasta until al dente, then rinse with cold water and drain.
- In a large bowl, combine pasta, Italian dressing, and Parmesan cheese; mix well.
- Add diced peppers, onion, grated carrot, cherry tomatoes, and olives; toss gently.
- Fold in cubed mozzarella cheese and season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, then toss again and garnish with chopped parsley before serving.