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Italian Pasta Salad Recipe

Italian Pasta Salad Recipe

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5 from 16 reviews

This Italian Pasta Salad is a delicious blend of rotini pasta, fresh vegetables, mozzarella, salami, and a zesty Italian dressing. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a light lunch, this salad is bursting with flavors and textures.

Ingredients

Pasta:

  • 1 lb. rotini pasta, uncooked

Vegetables:

  • 2 cups fresh diced or bite-sized blanched vegetables of choice (e.g., broccoli, bell peppers)
  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
  • ½ cup black olives, sliced
  • ½ cup pepperoncini, sliced
  • ½ cup red onion, sliced
  • ½ cup fresh parsley, chopped

Cheese and Meat:

  • 8 oz. mozzarella pearls or halved mozzarella balls
  • 8 oz. salami, chopped
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Dressing:

  • 1 batch homemade Italian dressing or 1 ½ cups store-bought Italian dressing

Seasoning:

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Cook the rotini pasta according to package directions, then drain and cool on a baking sheet.
  2. Prepare the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta with the vegetables, cheese, and salami.
  3. Add Dressing: Drizzle the Italian dressing over the salad and toss to coat. Season with salt and pepper.
  4. Chill and Serve: Cover the salad and chill in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours before serving. Enjoy!

Notes

  • This salad tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
  • If the salad becomes dry the next day, add more dressing until desired moisture is reached.
  • Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days.

Nutrition