This vibrant Mozzarella Pasta Salad is a crowd-pleasing dish that balances creamy cheese with savory ham and fresh greens. The corkscrew pasta holds the dressing perfectly, while black olives and green chiles add a delightful kick of flavor. It’s an excellent choice for potlucks, summer barbecues, or a light weeknight dinner. The ingredients meld together beautifully as the salad chills, creating a harmonious blend of textures and tastes. Serve it cold or at room temperature for a refreshing meal that satisfies both hunger and craving for something substantial yet easy to prepare.
Mozzarella Pasta Salad
Description
This vibrant Mozzarella Pasta Salad is a crowd-pleasing dish that balances creamy cheese with savory ham and fresh greens. The corkscrew pasta holds the dressing perfectly, while black olives and green chiles add a delightful kick of flavor. It&# 226;ÂÂs an excellent choice for potlucks, summer barbecues, or a light weeknight dinner. The ingredients meld together beautifully as the salad chills, creating a harmonious blend of textures and tastes. Serve it cold or at room temperature for a refreshing meal that satisfies both hunger and craving for something substantial yet easy to prepare.Ingredients
Directions
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the corkscrew pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cubed mozzarella, shredded cheddar, chopped ham, drained green chiles, and black olives.
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Gently fold in the fresh washed spinach leaves until evenly distributed among the pasta and other ingredients.
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Toss the salad gently to combine all ingredients. Season with salt and pepper to taste if desired.
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Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 12
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 157.2kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 1.3g2%
- Saturated Fat 0.2g1%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 1.2mg1%
- Total Carbohydrate 30.0g10%
- Dietary Fiber 2.2g9%
- Sugars 0.6g
- Protein 6.0g12%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
For best results, serve this salad chilled or at room temperature. It holds well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
You can substitute the mozzarella with fresh ricotta salata or feta for a tangier flavor profile.
If you prefer a creamy dressing, toss the ingredients with a light Italian vinaigrette or a mixture of mayonnaise, lemon juice, and dried oregano before chilling.
