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A clear bowl filled with colorful 4 ingredient pasta salad featuring rotini pasta, cherry tomatoes, yellow bell peppers, and cucumber.

4 Ingredient Pasta Salad

Emily
Make a quick and tasty 4 ingredient pasta salad with fresh veggies and a light dressing—perfect for any occasion!
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Course Side Dish, Salad
Cuisine American, Italian
Servings 4 People
Calories 250 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups of your favorite pasta penne, rotini, or bow tie work beautifully – Choose whole wheat or gluten-free options for a healthier twist.
  • 1 cup of fresh vegetables cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, or bell peppers – These add a vibrant crunch and refreshing flavor.
  • ½ cup of zesty dressing Italian or balsamic vinaigrette – The secret to tying all the flavors together effortlessly.
  • ½ cup of shredded cheese like mozzarella, cheddar, or a dairy-free alternative – Adds a creamy, savory touch that makes the salad irresistible.

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta

  • Fill a large pot with water, season generously with salt, and bring it to a rolling boil. Add your preferred pasta and cook until it’s perfectly tender, following the time indicated on the package.
  • Drain the pasta and rinse it under cool water to stop the cooking process and ensure it’s ready to use.

Prep the Vegetables

  • While the pasta is cooking, rinse and chop your fresh vegetables into bite-sized pieces. Cherry tomatoes can be halved, cucumbers sliced, and bell peppers diced for a colorful mix.

Combine Ingredients

  • In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooled pasta with the chopped vegetables. Add your zesty dressing and gently mix until everything is evenly coated.

Add the Cheese

  • Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the salad and fold it in gently. This will add a creamy texture and boost the flavor.

Chill and Serve

  • Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 15–20 minutes to let the flavors blend beautifully. Serve it cold for a refreshing and flavorful experience.

Notes

Nutrition Information (Per Serving):
  • Calories: 250 kcal
  • Fat: 12g
  • Protein: 6g
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 300mg
Keyword 4 Ingredient Pasta Salad, Easy Pasta Salad, Quick Salad Recipe