Olive Garden Pasta Salad Copycat
This copycat Olive Garden Pasta Salad brings all the Italian restaurant vibes to your kitchen with rotini pasta, pepperoni, bacon, black olives, fresh tomatoes, shredded cheese, and tangy Italian dressing. Perfect for potlucks, BBQs, or weeknight dinners.
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Pot
- Colander
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 box 16 oz Rotini pasta The spiral shape catches all that dressing
- 1 package 6 oz Pepperoni slices Chop for better distribution
- 1 cup Bacon bits Real bacon or store-bought bits
- 1 can 2-3 oz Black olives Sliced, adds briny punch
- 1 cup Fresh tomatoes Grape or Roma tomatoes, chopped
- 1-2 cups Shredded cheese Mozzarella or Italian blend
- 1 cup Olive Garden Italian Dressing Do not skip!
Instructions
- Cook rotini pasta according to package directions, drain, and cool completely.
- Chop pepperoni, tomatoes, and prepare bacon bits if needed.
- Combine pasta, pepperoni, tomatoes, bacon bits, black olives, and shredded cheese in a large mixing bowl. Pour dressing over and toss to coat.
- Cover and chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour before serving.
Notes
For best flavor, make ahead and let salad chill overnight. Add extra dressing if needed. Can swap proteins or cheese for variation.