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Kraft’s Italian Pasta Salad Copycat

Kraft’s Italian Pasta Salad Copycat: A Summer Sensation

This Kraft’s Italian Pasta Salad Copycat recipe is a quick, customizable, and flavorful summer dish perfect for gatherings.
Prep Time 13 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 23 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 8 ounces Tri-Color Rotini any short pasta can be substituted
  • 1 cup Kraft's Zesty Italian Dressing homemade dressing works too
  • 1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning or use individual herbs like oregano or thyme
  • 1 tablespoon Sweet Basil fresh basil is a great substitute
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder can substitute with fresh chopped onion
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder fresh minced garlic can be used
  • 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Feta or shredded Mozzarella can be used
For the Add-Ins
  • 1/2 cup Sliced Olives black or green varieties
  • 1 cup Cubed Colby Jack Cheese any cheese can substitute
  • 1/2 cup Mini Pepperoni can replace with salami or turkey pepperoni
  • 1 cup Sliced Green Pepper bell peppers of any color are fine
  • 1/2 cup Sliced Onion red onion for milder flavor
  • 1 cup Cherry or Grape Tomatoes diced regular tomatoes can be used
  • 1 cup Mini Croutons homemade croutons add gourmet touch

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Colander
  • mixing bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the tri-color rotini and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Once tender, drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine the cooled rotini with Kraft's Zesty Italian Dressing, Italian seasoning, sweet basil, onion powder, and garlic powder. Stir gently to coat each rotini.
  3. Sprinkle a generous amount of grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta mixture and fold into the salad.
  4. Incorporate any desired add-ins like sliced olives or cherry tomatoes. Mix well to evenly distribute ingredients.
  5. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 10gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 1000IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 1mg

Notes

For best results, serve fresh and adjust seasoning to taste. Refrigerate for make-ahead convenience.

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