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Italian Pasta Salad

Italian Pasta Salad

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Italian Pasta Salad is a vibrant, refreshing dish filled with bold Mediterranean flavors. Made with al dente pasta, crisp vegetables, savory meats, tangy cheeses, and a zesty Italian dressing, this salad is perfect for picnics, potlucks, or as a light yet satisfying meal. Its colorful presentation and ease of preparation make it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

ingredients

Italian Pasta Salad this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

pastasalami or pepperoni (cubed)mozzarella cheese (cubed or in pearls)cherry tomatoes (halved)cucumber (sliced or diced)red onion (thinly sliced)black olives (sliced)bell peppers (any color, diced)Italian dressing (bottled or homemade)fresh parsley or basil (chopped)salt and pepper

directions

Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.

Transfer the pasta to a large mixing bowl.

Add the salami or pepperoni, mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, and bell peppers.

Pour the Italian dressing over the mixture and toss well to coat everything evenly.

Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Garnish with chopped parsley or basil just before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 8 servings.Preparation time: 20 minutesChilling time: 30 minutesTotal time: 50 minutes

Variations

Swap mozzarella for feta cheese for a tangier flavor.

Add cooked, diced chicken for extra protein.

Use tri-color rotini for a more festive look.

Include artichoke hearts or sun-dried tomatoes for a gourmet touch.

Make it vegetarian by omitting the meat and adding chickpeas.

storage/reheating

Store Italian Pasta Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.Stir before serving to redistribute dressing.No reheating needed—best enjoyed cold or at room temperature.

Italian Pasta Salad

FAQs

Can I make Italian Pasta Salad ahead of time?

Yes, it actually tastes better after chilling for a few hours or overnight.

What type of pasta works best?

Rotini, penne, or farfalle work well as they hold dressing and ingredients nicely.

Is bottled dressing okay to use?

Absolutely, though homemade dressing can add a fresh, personalized touch.

Can I freeze pasta salad?

Freezing is not recommended as the texture of pasta and veggies can become mushy upon thawing.

How can I make it healthier?

Use whole wheat pasta, reduce the amount of cheese and salami, and increase the veggies.

Can I add beans?

Yes, white beans or chickpeas add great texture and protein.

Should I rinse the pasta?

Yes, rinsing cools the pasta and stops the cooking process, perfect for salad prep.

What’s a good homemade dressing?

A mix of olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper makes a great Italian dressing.

Can I use store-bought veggie trays?

Yes, pre-cut vegetables can save prep time and work just as well.

Is it gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta to make this salad suitable for gluten-free diets.

Conclusion

Italian Pasta Salad is a colorful, flavor-packed dish that’s both easy to prepare and endlessly customizable. Whether served as a side dish or a main course, it brings freshness and variety to any table. Perfect for make-ahead meals or entertaining, it’s a reliable go-to for anyone craving something light, savory, and satisfying.

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Italian Pasta Salad

Italian Pasta Salad

  • Author: simplemealsbykim
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Low Lactose
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Description

A refreshing and colorful Italian Pasta Salad made with rotini pasta, fresh vegetables, salami, cheese, and a zesty Italian dressing. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or as a hearty side dish.

Ingredients

  • 12 oz rotini pasta
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup cucumber, diced
  • 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
  • 1/2 cup yellow bell pepper, diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 3/4 cup black olives, sliced
  • 1 cup mozzarella balls (bocconcini), halved
  • 1 cup salami, sliced into strips
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup Italian dressing
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

  1. Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red and yellow bell peppers, red onion, olives, mozzarella balls, and salami.
  3. Pour the Italian dressing over the salad and toss until everything is well coated.
  4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley before serving.
  6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving for best flavor.

Notes

  • You can substitute mozzarella balls with cubed mozzarella if desired.
  • Add banana peppers or pepperoncini for extra tang.
  • This salad can be made a day in advance for better flavor infusion.