Italian Aunt’s Pasta Salad
A simple Italian Aunt’s Pasta Salad of warm pasta tossed with oil-based dressing, rested to absorb flavor, then finished with fresh add-ins. Light, bright, and versatile.
Servings
Ingredients
- Pasta any short shape (such as rotini, fusilli, or penne)
- Oil-based dressing room temperature (such as Italian vinaigrette or olive oil and vinegar)
Instructions
Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente. Once cooked, drain completely using a colander.
Dress the Pasta While Warm
- Immediately return the drained pasta to the warm pot. Pour the room-temperature oil-based dressing over the pasta and stir gently until it is evenly coated.
Rest at Room Temperature
- Allow the dressed pasta to rest at room temperature for approximately 1 hour so the flavors may be absorbed.
Add Additional Ingredients (Optional)
- If adding sturdy ingredients—such as vegetables, olives, or cheese—fold them into the warm pasta. If using delicate ingredients—such as fresh basil—wait to add them until the pasta has cooled or is fully chilled.
Chill and Serve
- Refrigerate until ready to serve. Gently stir before serving to redistribute the dressing.
Notes
This Italian Aunt’s Pasta Salad can be made gluten-free by using certified gluten-free pasta. Ensure the selected oil-based dressing is also gluten-free; many vinaigrettes are naturally gluten-free, but additives may vary by brand, so labels should be checked carefully.