Description
Italian Pasta Salad is a delightful dish that perfectly captures the essence of summer gatherings. Combining tender rotini, savory salami, fresh vegetables, and two types of cheese, this salad is both refreshing and satisfying. Tossed in a zesty homemade dressing, it’s an easy-to-make recipe that will transport your taste buds straight to Italy. Ideal for picnics, barbecues, or potlucks, this vibrant dish not only impresses with its colorful presentation but also satisfies guests of all ages. With the ability to customize ingredients based on personal preferences, it’s a versatile choice that fits any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
- 16 oz dry rotini
- 10 oz hard salami, chopped
- 3 cups grape tomatoes, halved
- 1 (6 oz) can black olives, sliced
- 2 cups chopped bell peppers
- 1/2 cup chopped red onion
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella pearls
- 3 oz freshly grated parmesan cheese
- Fresh herbs (parsley and basil)
- 1 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 2 tsp dijon mustard
- 1 tsp honey
- 2 tsp minced garlic
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Cook rotini in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water and drain.
- Spread cooked pasta on a baking sheet to cool for about 15 minutes.
- While cooling, chop vegetables and whisk together dressing ingredients in a bowl.
- In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta with salami, tomatoes, olives, bell peppers, red onion, mozzarella pearls, parmesan cheese, parsley, and basil.
- Pour dressing over the salad along with reserved pasta water; toss to combine.
- Adjust seasoning if needed and serve immediately or chill for an hour before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 30mg