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Garlic and Herb Rotini Salad is a refreshing and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a variety of occasions, from summer picnics to elegant dinner parties. This salad not only captivates the palate with its vibrant ingredients but also offers a delightful combination of textures and tastes that leave a lasting impression.

Garlic and Herb Rotini Salad

Elevate your spring gatherings with this Garlic and Herb Rotini Salad, a refreshing and vibrant dish perfect for Easter brunch or a casual picnic. With its creamy garlic dressing and colorful vegetables, this easy weeknight dinner option is both nutritious and satisfying. Quick to prepare and versatile enough for various diets, its a delightful way to celebrate the season. Save this for later and impress your guests with bright flavors!
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Ingredients
  

12 oz rotini pasta

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup cucumber, diced

1 bell pepper (either red or yellow), diced

1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped

1/2 cup black olives, sliced

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped

4 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil

3 tablespoons red wine vinegar

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried thyme

Salt and pepper, to taste

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: Fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture, typically around 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold running water to cool and stop the cooking process. Set the pasta aside to drain fully.

    Prepare the Vegetables: In a large mixing bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, diced bell pepper, finely chopped red onion, sliced black olives, chopped parsley, and chopped basil. Gently toss the vegetables together to ensure they are mixed evenly.

      Make the Dressing: In a separate small bowl, add the minced garlic, extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, dried thyme, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk the ingredients together vigorously until the dressing is well combined and emulsified.

        Combine Pasta and Dressing: Add the cooled rotini to your bowl of prepared vegetables. Drizzle the garlic herb dressing over the top. Toss everything together thoroughly, ensuring that the pasta and vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing.

          Chill: Cover the salad bowl with plastic wrap or a lid. Place the salad in the refrigerator and let it chill for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to deepen and meld beautifully together.

            Serve: When ready to serve, take the salad out of the refrigerator and give it a good toss to redistribute the ingredients. If desired, sprinkle the top with grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Dig in and enjoy!

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings:

                Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 6-8