Ingredients
Scale
- 16 oz of cooked rotini or penne pasta (preferably colorful or tri-color for a spooky effect)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup black olives, sliced
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup chopped bell peppers (orange, yellow, and purple)
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
- ½ cup Italian dressing or homemade vinaigrette
- Optional: gummy worms or decorative edible eyes for a spookier effect
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool.
- Chop cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, and black olives. Shred the mozzarella cheese.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta with chopped vegetables and cheese. Pour in the Italian dressing or vinaigrette and toss gently to coat.
- Add gummy worms or edible decorations for a spooky effect, if desired.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld. Serve chilled.
Notes
- Decorate with gummy worms or edible eyes just before serving to keep decorations fresh.
- This salad can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance—store covered in the refrigerator.
- Adjust ingredients based on dietary preferences or availability, including vegan cheese options.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1 cup)
- Calories: 240 Kcal
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 20mg