Ingredients
Method
Make the Creamy Italian Dressing
- Add the mayonnaise, milk, balsamic vinegar, Italian seasoning, sugar, garlic, salt, and pepper to a glass jar with a lid or a blender.
- Shake the jar well until the mixture becomes smooth and fully combined. If using a blender, pulse until creamy.
- Place the dressing in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This rest time allows the flavors to blend and deepen, making the dressing even more delicious
Prepare the Salad
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until it’s just al dente. This keeps the texture firm so it holds up well in the salad.
- Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down quickly and stop the cooking process.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the tomatoes, mozzarella, zucchini, carrots, avocado, and basil.
- Pour the chilled dressing over the pasta mixture. Stir gently until everything is evenly coated.
- Taste and adjust with a pinch of salt or a touch more dressing if needed.
Extra Notes
- This salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
- To grill zucchini, lightly brush slices with olive oil and grill them until tender with some char marks. If you don’t have a grill, a skillet with olive oil works just as well.
- Leftovers can be stored in a sealed container in the fridge for up to four days. Just give it a quick stir before serving again to refresh the texture.
Video
Notes
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
Calories: 477 kcal
Carbohydrates: 48 g
Protein: 11 g
Fat: 27 g
Saturated Fat: 5 g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 14 g
Monounsaturated Fat: 8 g
Trans Fat: 1 g
Cholesterol: 16 mg
Sodium: 230 mg
Potassium: 740 mg
Fiber: 6 g
Sugar: 8 g
Vitamin A: 3152 IU
Vitamin C: 40 mg
Calcium: 86 mg
Iron: 3 mg
Carbohydrates: 48 g
Protein: 11 g
Fat: 27 g
Saturated Fat: 5 g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 14 g
Monounsaturated Fat: 8 g
Trans Fat: 1 g
Cholesterol: 16 mg
Sodium: 230 mg
Potassium: 740 mg
Fiber: 6 g
Sugar: 8 g
Vitamin A: 3152 IU
Vitamin C: 40 mg
Calcium: 86 mg
Iron: 3 mg
