Ingredients and Weight:
- 1 pound dried short pasta, such as penne or rotini
- 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup chopped red onion
- 1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper
- 1/2 cup chopped celery
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation Time:
10 minutes
Cooking Time:
10-12 minutes
Difficulty Level:
2 (Easy)
Preparation Method Steps:
- Cook the pasta according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, red onion, green bell pepper, and celery.
- Stir in the cooked pasta, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, parsley, olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Toss to combine and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Nutritional Information:
Per serving (1 cup):
- Calories: 300
- Fat: 10g (16% DV)
- Saturated fat: 5g (25% DV)
- Cholesterol: 20mg (7% DV)
- Sodium: 400mg (17% DV)
- Carbohydrates: 45g (15% DV)
- Protein: 10g (20% DV)
Dish Characteristics:
- Festive and colorful
- Savory and tangy
- Perfect for Christmas gatherings
- Easy to prepare and customizable
User Comments:
- "This pasta salad is so delicious and refreshing! It's perfect for Christmas parties." - Rachel
- "I love the combination of flavors in this salad. It's my new go-to for potlucks." - Jessica
- "This is the best tomato pasta salad I've ever had! It's so easy to make and always a hit with my family." - Sarah
- "I added some crumbled feta cheese and olives to this salad, and it was even more amazing!" - Emily
- "This salad is so versatile. I've used different combinations of vegetables and cheeses, and it's always turned out great." - Mark
Special Precautions and Tips:
- To make this salad gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the Parmesan cheese.
- Let the salad chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
- This salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
