Brian in the Kitchen Recipes
BRIAN IN THE KITCHEN brought to you by Stittsworth Meats
May 14 2013
Grad Party - Make Ahead Italian Dressing Pasta Salad
2 packages (12 ounces each) tricolor spiral pasta
2 packages (16 ounces each) frozen California-blend vegetables, thawed
2 pints grape tomatoes
1 large zucchini, halved and thinly sliced
1 large yellow summer squash, quartered and thinly sliced
1 large red onion, finely chopped
1 block (8 ounces) cheddar cheese, cubed
1 block (8 ounces) Monterey Jack cheese, cubed
2 packages (4 ounces each) crumbled tomato and basil feta cheese
1 bottle (16 ounces) Olive Garden Signature Italian Dressing
3 tablespoons minced fresh parsley
1 tablespoon minced fresh basil
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon seasoned salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1 can (3.8 ounces) sliced ripe olives, drained
Grated Romano cheese, optional
Cook pasta according to package directions. Rinse with cold water; drain well. In two large bowls, combine the California vegetables, tomatoes, zucchini, yellow squash, onion, cheeses and pasta.
In a small bowl, combine the salad dressing, parsley, basil, Italian seasoning, seasoned salt and pepper. Pour over pasta mixture; toss to coat. Stir in olives. Cover and refrigerate for 8 hours or overnight.
Toss before serving. Serve with Romano cheese if desired. Yield: 36 servings.