Description
This Chilled 4th of July Pasta Salad is bursting with patriotic colors and fresh summer flavors! Made with tri-color pasta, juicy cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, creamy mozzarella, and a tangy herb dressing, it’s the perfect make-ahead side for your holiday cookout. Light, refreshing, and festive, it’s guaranteed to be a crowd favorite at any Independence Day celebration.
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Ingredients
For the Salad:
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12 oz tri-color rotini pasta
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1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
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1 cup diced cucumber
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1 cup mozzarella pearls (or cubed mozzarella)
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½ cup black olives, sliced
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¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
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¼ cup fresh parsley or basil, chopped
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½ cup red bell pepper, diced
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½ cup blueberries (for a fun and festive twist)
For the Dressing:
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⅓ cup olive oil
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2 tbsp red wine vinegar
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1 tbsp lemon juice
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1 tsp Dijon mustard
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1 clove garlic, minced
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½ tsp dried oregano
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½ tsp salt
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¼ tsp black pepper
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
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Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
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Drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking and cool it down. Set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
4. In a bowl or jar, combine olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
5. Whisk or shake until well combined.
Step 3: Combine the Salad
6. In a large bowl, combine cooked and cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, mozzarella, olives, red onion, bell pepper, and blueberries.
7. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat evenly.
8. Gently fold in fresh parsley or basil.
Step 4: Chill & Serve
9. Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to let the flavors meld.
10. Give it a quick toss before serving and garnish with extra herbs or cheese if desired.
Notes
Rinse the Pasta – Stops cooking and prevents it from sticking.
Add Dressing While Pasta is Slightly Warm – Helps absorb flavor.
Use Fresh Ingredients – Keeps the salad crisp and colorful.
Chill Before Serving – Enhances taste and texture.
Toss Again Before Serving – Redistributes dressing and freshens presentation.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Cuisine: American