Olive Garden Pasta Salad

When the warm weather hits, there’s nothing quite like a refreshing pasta salad to bring family and friends together. This Olive Garden Pasta Salad comes together in a breeze, making it a perfect dish for gatherings, picnics, or a simple weeknight dinner. With its vibrant colors and bold flavors, it’s sure to delight everyone at the table.

This recipe is ideal for those looking for a crowd-pleasing dish that is as easy to prepare as it is delicious. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or simply want a tasty side for your meal, this pasta salad is a fantastic choice. Plus, it can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for a quick grab-and-go option.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The combination of rotini pasta with fresh ingredients creates a satisfying texture.
• A delightful mix of flavors makes it a hit for gatherings.
• It’s customizable, allowing you to add your favorite toppings.
• Preparation takes only about 30 minutes, perfect for busy days.

What You’ll Need

Gather the following ingredients to create this mouthwatering pasta salad:

For the Salad

• 1 box (16 oz) rotini pasta
• 1 package (6 oz) pepperonis, chopped
• 1 cup bacon bits
• 1 can (2-3 oz) sliced black olives, drained
• 1 cup chopped tomatoes
• 1-2 cups shredded cheese, such as mozzarella or cheddar

For the Dressing

• 1 cup Olive Garden Italian Dressing

Use turkey bacon for a lighter option.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Use any pasta shape you prefer.
• Swap pepperonis for diced salami or ham.
• Opt for feta cheese for a tangy twist.
• Replace dressing with any Italian vinaigrette.

How to Make It

Start by cooking the pasta to create a delightful base.

1. Cook the pasta
   Prepare the rotini pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside to cool completely.

2. Chop the ingredients
   While the pasta cools, chop the pepperonis and tomatoes into bite-sized pieces.

3. Combine the salad
   Pour the cooled pasta into a large bowl. Add the chopped pepperonis, tomatoes, bacon bits, sliced black olives, and shredded cheese.

4. Mix with dressing
   Drizzle the Olive Garden Italian dressing over the ingredients and stir until everything is well combined.

5. Chill and serve
   Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve chilled.

How to Store It

Fridge: up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Freezer: no, the pasta will become mushy.
Reheat: not needed, best served cold.

Tips for Best Results

• Allow the pasta to cool completely before mixing to prevent sogginess.
• Adjust the dressing quantity according to your taste preference.
• Use fresh ingredients for an extra burst of flavor.
• Stir the salad again before serving to redistribute the dressing.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with grilled chicken for a complete meal.
• Serve alongside BBQ dishes at your next cookout.
• Bring it to potlucks for an easy, shareable dish.