Classic Pasta Salad

This one has been a long time coming, guys. Whenever I go to a cookout or gathering, this is my most requested dish to bring. And I can’t believe that I don’t have it here on the site yet. Friends are always asking for the recipe, and it will be great to have the link handy from now on!

At any rate, it’s the classic version. Tri-colored rotini, tomatoes, onions, cukes, black olives, cheese, and Italian dressing. But, there area few things that I’ve added it to it to the years that make it special…

First off, fresh herbs – chopped basil, parsley, and oregano bring a ton of freshness to the dish. I usually have an abundance of all of them in the summer, and it’s a great way to use them. Also, celery seed – the brightness and crunch it adds to the dish is on point.

I take a shortcut and use the powdered Italian dressing. I’ve made my own, and used bottled – but nothing compares to the Good Seasons Italian in this application. For someone who makes most of her dressings at home – I love the stuff. I’ve always got a packet in the pantry.

Sometimes I’ll add chopped up pepperoni or salami, or pepperocinis, or chopped bell peppers…but this is my standard. I could live off this stuff in the summertime, and many weeks – I do. It’s my favorite, and I know it will be one of yours too!

Classic Pasta Salad

1 lb tri-color rotini pasta
5 roma tomatoes, diced
2 cucumbers – peeled, seeded and diced
1 red onion, small diced
1 can black olives, drained and olives halved
1 tsp celery seed
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
1 Tbsp fresh oregano, chopped (or 2 tsp dried)
16 oz shredded cheese (I like a blend of cheddar and mozzarella)
1 packet Good Seasons Italian Dressing (I like the Zesty kind!)
kosher salt
fresh ground black pepper

Prepare salad dressing according to directions on packet.

Cook the pasta in salted water for 7-8 minutes until al dente, and drain.

Combine the veggies, olives and pasta in a large bowl. Add the salad dressing, and toss to coat everything.

Add in the celery seed, fresh herbs, the cheese, and salt and pepper to taste.

Fridge it for an hour or so to let the flavors blend.

Source: adapted from my good friend Crystal’s mom, Ms. Ginny. We miss you, but rest assured your pasta salad lives on!