Rainbow Pasta Salad
This vibrant pasta salad is loaded with colorful vegetables and tossed in a simple Italian dressing that kids find irresistible. It is a great make-ahead lunch that stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to three days.
A colorful chilled pasta salad that is as fun to look at as it is to eat.
Nutrition per serving
Ingredients
base
vegetables
protein
dressing
Instructions
Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, add the rotini pasta, and cook according to package directions until al dente, then drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta down.
Chop the Vegetables
While the pasta cools, halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber into small cubes, and slice the black olives so all the pieces are bite-sized and easy for kids to manage.
Combine Everything
Add the cooled pasta, all the prepared vegetables, and the shredded mozzarella to a large mixing bowl, then pour the Italian dressing over everything and toss gently until well combined.
Chill and Serve
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 10 minutes before serving so the flavors can meld together, then toss once more before portioning into bowls.
Substitutions
Common mistakes
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