Looking for the ultimate pasta salad recipe that will impress your guests? This Zesty Italian Pasta Salad is a vibrant, flavor-packed dish featuring rotini pasta, tangy Italian dressing, fresh veggies, and savory meats. Perfect for summer gatherings, potlucks, or as a light yet satisfying meal, this salad can be customized to suit your taste preferences. With its bold flavors and easy preparation, this pasta salad is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation!
Why You’ll Love This Pasta Salad Recipe
- Homemade Italian Dressing: The star of this recipe, bursting with tangy, herby goodness and Parmesan for a gourmet touch. <Click to view recipe>
- Fresh and Vibrant Ingredients: Crisp veggies, pepperoncini, mozzarella pearls, and a medley of Italian meats bring this salad to life.
- Customizable: Easily adapt the ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary needs.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it up to 24 hours in advance for stress-free entertaining.
Ingredients
- Rotini pasta: 1 lb, cooked al dente
- Homemade Italian dressing: <Click to view recipe>
- Pepperoni: 3.5-4 oz, quartered
- Salami: 4 oz, quartered
- Cherry tomatoes: 1 pint, halved
- Black olives: 1 cup, halved
- Orange bell pepper: 1, chopped
- Green bell pepper: 1, chopped
- Red onion: ½ cup, finely diced
- Pepperoncini: 2 tbsp, chopped
- Mozzarella pearls: 8 oz
- Parmesan cheese: For garnish
- Fresh parsley: For garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Dressing <Click to view recipe>
- Make the Italian dressing according to your favorite recipe. Chill until ready to use. Shake to recombine before adding to the salad.
- Make the Italian dressing according to your favorite recipe. Chill until ready to use. Shake to recombine before adding to the salad.
- Cook the Pasta:
- Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and transfer to a large bowl.
- Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and transfer to a large bowl.
- Mix the Salad:
- Toss warm pasta with half of the dressing to coat. Add the pepperoni, salami, tomatoes, olives, bell peppers, red onion, pepperoncini, and mozzarella. Mix until evenly combined.
- Toss warm pasta with half of the dressing to coat. Add the pepperoni, salami, tomatoes, olives, bell peppers, red onion, pepperoncini, and mozzarella. Mix until evenly combined.
- Chill:
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (up to 24 hours).
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (up to 24 hours).
- Finish and Serve:
- Toss with remaining dressing before serving. Garnish with Parmesan and parsley for a fresh, zesty finish.
Tips for the Best Pasta Salad
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: Avoid overcooking to ensure the pasta maintains its texture.
- Toss While Warm: Mix the pasta with dressing while warm for optimal flavor absorption.
- Reserve Dressing: Save some dressing to toss just before serving for the freshest taste.
- Customize It: Add your favorite veggies, proteins, or cheeses for a personalized twist.
Recipe Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Swap the meats for marinated artichoke hearts, sun-dried tomatoes, or chickpeas.
- Greek-Inspired: Use Kalamata olives, cucumbers, and feta cheese.
- Creamy Twist: Mix in a bit of mayo and sour cream for a rich, creamy texture.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes.
What to Serve with Pasta Salad
This versatile pasta salad pairs wonderfully with:
- Grilled mains: Chicken kabobs, BBQ ribs, or steak.
- Sandwiches: Italian subs, turkey burgers, or barbecue brisket sandwiches.
- Fresh sides: Strawberry spinach salad, grilled zucchini, or watermelon salad.