What makes this Olive Garden Pasta Salad recipe a good copycat?

This recipe uses the key ingredients and proportions to mimic the taste and texture of the original Olive Garden Pasta Salad. The homemade Italian dressing and vegetable blend closely resemble the restaurant's version.

Can I make Olive Garden Pasta Salad ahead of time?

Yes, this pasta salad is great for making ahead! In fact, it tastes even better after the flavors have had a chance to meld together in the refrigerator for a few hours.

What kind of pasta is best for Olive Garden Pasta Salad?

Rotini pasta is the best option. The shape of rotini allows it to hold onto the dressing and vegetables, creating a more flavorful and texturally interesting salad.

Can I add protein to this Olive Garden Pasta Salad?

Yes! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas make excellent additions to this pasta salad. Adding protein can transform it into a more substantial meal.

Amazing Olive Garden Pasta Salad: 7 Secret Recipe Tips!

Name: Olive Garden Pasta Salad: The BEST Copycat Recipe Ever!
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 pound rotini pasta; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cup cucumber, peeled, seeded, and diced; 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced; 1/2 cup black olives, sliced; 1/2 cup green bell pepper, diced; 1/2 cup carrots, shredded; 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated; 1 cup bottled Italian dressing (or homemade); Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Description

A vibrant and flavorful pasta salad reminiscent of Olive Garden’s classic, featuring rotini pasta, fresh vegetables, Parmesan cheese, and Italian dressing. A quick and easy dish for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

1 pound rotini pasta
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup cucumber, peeled, seeded, and diced
1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/2 cup black olives, sliced
1/2 cup green bell pepper, diced
1/2 cup carrots, shredded
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1 cup bottled Italian dressing (or homemade)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

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Instructions

Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water.
In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, black olives, green bell pepper, and carrots.
Pour the Italian dressing over the pasta and vegetables. Toss gently to combine.
Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and toss gently.
Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Serve chilled and enjoy!

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Salad
Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

Calories: 350
Sugar: 8g
Sodium: 400mg
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 10g
Cholesterol: 15mg