1-First Step: Prepare the Ingredients Gather and prep all items before cooking. This includes measuring 12 oz multi-colored fusilli pasta and dicing 1/2 medium cucumber along with the tomatoes. Having everything ready helps keep the Zesty Italian Pasta Salad assembly quick and organized, as noted in the recipe guidelines.

2-Second Step: Cook the Pasta Boil a large pot of salted water and add the pasta, cooking it al dente according to package instructions, which takes about 15 minutes. Once done, drain and rinse it under cold water to cool it down, just like the directions specify. This step stops the cooking process and prepares the pasta to hold the dressing well without getting mushy. For more on pasta cooking, check our How to Cook Pasta Guide for expert tips.

3-Third Step: Combine the Ingredients In a large mixing bowl, add the drained pasta along with the black olives, green olives, cucumber, and tomatoes. Pour in 1 cup of Italian salad dressing and 2 tablespoons of salad supreme seasoning, then mix everything thoroughly. Taste and adjust by adding more seasoning or dressing as needed, following the recipe’s advice for perfect balance.

4-Fourth Step: Chill and Serve Once mixed, serve the salad right away or refrigerate it for later. Letting it sit in the fridge allows the flavors to blend and develop, making it taste even better the next day. If it seems dry when you serve it, add a bit more dressing to maintain the zesty consistency as recommended.