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Creamy Italian Pasta Salad

Creamy Italian Pasta Salad

from thedefineddish.com
35 min
8 servings
485 kcal per serving

Ingredients

  • homemade mayonnaise
    1 c
  • dijon mustard
    2 tsp
  • garlic cloves

    minced

    4
  • red pepper flakes
    1 tsp
  • italian seasoning
    3 tsp
  • kosher salt
    1 tsp
  • freshly ground black pepper
    ½ tsp
  • freshly squeezed lemon juice)

    (from about 1½ lemons

    3 tbsp
  • white wine vinegar
    3 tbsp
  • rotini or fusilli pasta

    cooked according to package directions

    12 oz
  • diced small red bell pepper)

    (from about 1 small pepper

    1 c
  • finely diced shallot)

    (from about 1 large shallot

    ½ c
  • sliced black olives
    ½ c
  • diced hard uncured salami
    1 c
  • diced mozzarella
    1 c
  • finely chopped parsley
    ¼ c
  • thinly sliced basil leaves
    ½ c
  • kosher salt
    to taste

Directions

Make the creamy italian dressing:

  1. 1

    In a blender or using an immersion blender in a wide-mouth jar, combine the homemade mayonnaise, mustard, garlic, red pepper flakes, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, lemon juice, and vinegar.

  2. 2

    Blend until smooth and creamy.

  3. 3

    Set aside the dressing.

Assemble the pasta salad:

  1. 1

    In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, bell peppers, shallots, olives, salami, mozzarella, parsley, and basil.

  2. 2

    Pour the Creamy Italian Dressing over the pasta mixture.

  3. 3

    Toss until the pasta is very well coated and all ingredients are combined.

  4. 4

    Season to taste with salt.

  5. 5

    Cover the bowl and refrigerate until just chilled.

About this Recipe

Indulge in Our Irresistible Creamy Italian Pasta Salad

Looking for the ultimate side dish that's sure to be a crowd-pleaser? Dive into our Creamy Italian Pasta Salad, a vibrant and incredibly flavorful dish perfect for any gathering, potluck, or picnic. Forget bland store-bought versions; this homemade recipe elevates classic Italian flavors with a rich, luscious dressing that coats every single piece of pasta and fresh ingredient.

What makes this easy pasta salad recipe truly stand out is its decadent, homemade mayonnaise-based dressing. Infused with aromatic garlic, zesty lemon juice, tangy white wine vinegar, and a generous blend of Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes, it creates a symphony of savory notes. The addition of Dijon mustard provides a subtle, sophisticated kick that perfectly complements the creamy texture. Every bite is a delightful combination of savory salami, fresh mozzarella, crisp red bell pepper, and briny black olives, all tossed with your favorite rotini or fusilli pasta.

Tips for the Perfect Pasta Salad

  • Pasta Perfection: While rotini and fusilli are excellent choices for their ability to hold the creamy dressing, feel free to experiment with other short, sturdy pasta shapes like penne or farfalle.
  • Fresh Herbs are Key: Don't skip the fresh parsley and basil! They add a bright, aromatic freshness that truly lifts the entire dish.
  • Balance the Flavors: Taste the dressing before adding it to the pasta. Adjust salt, pepper, or lemon juice to your preference for a perfectly balanced flavor profile.

This creamy Italian pasta salad is more than just a side; it's a centerpiece. Serve it alongside grilled chicken, barbecued ribs, or as a light lunch all on its own. Its generous yield of 8 servings makes it ideal for sharing, and its irresistible flavors will have everyone asking for the recipe!

Frequently Asked Questions

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