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Vibrant easy Christmas pasta salad with fusilli, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and spinach in a pesto dressing.

Easy Christmas Pasta Salad

This vibrant Christmas pasta salad features festive red and green veggies tossed with pasta, mozzarella, and a zesty vinaigrette. It’s a quick, colorful, make-ahead holiday side dish that’s perfect for potlucks, lunches, and celebrations!
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Course: Holiday, Side Dish
Cuisine: American, Christmas
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz rotini or farfalle pasta
  • 1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup fresh broccoli florets, chopped
  • 1/2 cup fresh spinach, chopped
  • 4 oz mozzarella pearls or cubed provolone
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 tbsp cider vinegar
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup diced cooked ham or shredded chicken (optional)

Equipment

  • Large pasta pot
  • Large mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Cutting Board
  • Sharp knife

Method
 

  1. Cook pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water.
  2. Wash and chop all vegetables: halve tomatoes, chop broccoli and spinach.
  3. Dice cheese and optional cooked protein (ham or chicken).
  4. In a bowl, whisk olive oil, vinegar, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
  5. In a large bowl, combine pasta, tomatoes, broccoli, spinach, cheese, and optional protein.
  6. Pour dressing over salad and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
  7. Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
  8. Before serving, give it a final toss and garnish with extra spinach or parsley if desired.

Notes

Rotini or farfalle pasta works best. You can add protein like ham or chicken, and even toss in toasted pecans or cranberries for a festive twist. Prepare up to 24 hours ahead and refresh with a little dressing before serving if needed.