Best Italian Pasta Salad
Ingredients
- 16 oz rotini pasta
- 10 oz salami)
(chopped into ¼ inch pieces
- 1 cup English cucumber)
(quartered and sliced
- 2 cups grape tomatoes)
(halved
- 1 ½ cups bell peppers)
(diced, I like two use two different colors
- ½ cup red onion)
(chopped
- 8 oz black olives)
(drained and sliced
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella pearls
- ½ cup parmesan cheese)
(shredded
- ½ cup parsley)
(chopped
- 1 ¼ cup olive oil
- 3 tbsp lemon juice)
(freshly squeezed
- 1 ½ tbsp Italian seasoning
- 2 tsp sugar
- 3 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 2 tsp garlic)
(minced
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
Directions
- 1
In a large pot, cook pasta according to the package directions on the box for al dente. Drain in a large colander and rinse with cold water to cool the pasta down. Then set aside.
- 2
Add, olive oil, lemon juice, Italian seasoning, sugar, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper to a medium bowl. Whisk until well combined and set aside.
- 3
Add cooked pasta and the remaining pasta salad ingredients to a large bowl. Then pour dressing over the top. Mix until well combined!
- 4
Serve cold, and enjoy!
Best Italian Pasta Salad
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About this Recipe
Looking for a vibrant, flavorful pasta salad that’s sure to be the star of any gathering? This Best Italian Pasta Salad recipe is your answer, offering a delightful medley of textures and zesty flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Why This Pasta Salad Works So Well
The secret to this recipe's irresistible charm lies in its harmonious combination of fresh ingredients and a bright, homemade dressing. Unlike pre-made versions, crafting your own dressing with olive oil, red wine vinegar, fresh lemon juice, and aromatic Italian seasoning ensures a perfectly balanced tang and depth that truly elevates every bite. The creamy mozzarella pearls, savory salami, and crisp vegetables are all coated in this incredible, zesty blend, making each forkful a balanced delight.
What to Expect
Prepare for a feast for the senses! You'll be greeted by chewy rotini pasta, tender pieces of savory salami, and the satisfying crunch of fresh English cucumber and bell peppers. Halved grape tomatoes burst with sweetness, while the subtle bite of red onion and briny black olives adds complexity. The creamy mozzarella pearls and shredded Parmesan cheese bring a luxurious richness, all tied together by a lively, herbaceous dressing with hints of garlic and Dijon. It's a robust, refreshing salad that's surprisingly substantial, perfect for feeding a crowd with its generous 12 servings.
Customization & Variations
One of the best things about this Italian pasta salad is its versatility. Feel free to make it your own with a few simple swaps:
- Protein power: Swap the salami for pepperoni, diced cooked chicken, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
- Veggie boost: Experiment with sun-dried tomatoes, marinated artichoke hearts, or thinly sliced carrots to add more color and flavor.
- Cheese choices: If you don't have mozzarella pearls, small cubes of fresh mozzarella or even crumbled feta would work beautifully.
Serve this Best Italian Pasta Salad at your next picnic, potluck, or as a vibrant side to your weeknight dinner. It's fantastic alongside grilled chicken, burgers, or as a satisfying light lunch on its own.