Italian Pasta Salad

This easy and delicious Italian Pasta Salad recipe is perfect for summer potlucks, BBQs, or meal prep! Made with rotini pasta, fresh vegetables, mozzarella, salami, pepperoni, and a zesty Italian dressing, it’s a flavorful crowd-pleaser that can be customized to suit any taste. Ready in no time and ideal for make-ahead meals!

Ingredients

• 1 lb. Rotini pasta
• 1 small red bell pepper (about 1 cup, diced)
• 1 small green bell pepper (about 1 cup, diced)
• 1 pint cherry tomatoes (sliced)
• 8 oz. Mozzarella pearls (about 1 ¼ cups)
• ¾ cup chopped salami (4-5 oz.)
• ¾ cup mini pepperoni
• 1 cup sliced black olives
• ½ cup finely diced red onion
• ¼ cup fresh parsley (chopped)
• ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 ¼ cups Italian salad dressing (store-bought or homemade; see notes below for a homemade option)

Instructions

Boil the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Once boiling, generously salt the water (about 1 tablespoon kosher salt).
2. Add the rotini pasta and cook until al dente or 30 seconds shy of the recommended time. Set a timer to avoid overcooking.
3. Drain the pasta and spread it out on a tray or parchment paper. Drizzle with 1-2 tablespoons olive oil and let it cool.

Make the Salad

1. While the pasta is boiling and cooling, prepare the other ingredients. Finely dice the vegetables and ensure all ingredients are of similar size for even mixing. Use paper towels to remove excess moisture from the vegetables.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with the prepared vegetables, mozzarella pearls, salami, pepperoni, black olives, parsley, and Parmesan cheese.
3. Toss everything with the Italian dressing. For best results, chill the salad in the refrigerator for 2-3 hours before serving.
4. If making ahead (8-12 hours): Add an additional ½ cup of dressing just before serving, as the pasta will absorb the dressing during storage.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: Minimal cooking involved and perfect for meal prep.
• Crowd-pleaser: Ideal for picnics, potlucks, and family gatherings.
• Customizable: Easily swap out ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs.
• Make-ahead friendly: Flavors deepen as it chills, making it perfect to prepare in advance.

Tips

• Cool the pasta properly: Spread it out and drizzle with olive oil to prevent clumping.
• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and quality mozzarella make a noticeable difference.
• Balance the dressing: Start with 1 ¼ cups, adding more as needed based on personal preference.
• Chill time: Allowing the salad to chill enhances the flavors.

Variations and Substitutions

• Vegetarian option: Skip the salami and pepperoni, and add chickpeas for extra protein.
• Cheese swaps: Substitute feta or cubed cheddar for mozzarella pearls.
• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta.
• Add greens: Toss in baby spinach or arugula for added freshness.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this salad the night before?
A: Yes! Store it in the fridge and add extra dressing just before serving to refresh the flavors.

Q: How long does this salad last in the fridge?
A: It stays fresh for 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container.

Q: Can I use store-bought dressing?
A: Absolutely! Choose your favorite Italian dressing, or make your own for a personalized touch.

Serving and Suggestions

• Pair with: Grilled chicken, burgers, or crusty bread.
• Occasions: Perfect for summer BBQs, potlucks, or as a light dinner.
• Presentation: Garnish with additional parsley or Parmesan for a vibrant look.