Classic Italian Pasta Salad Recipe
A Refreshing and Flavorful Side Dish for Any Occasion!
This classic Italian pasta salad is a perfect balance of flavors and textures, combining al dente pasta, savory salami, fresh vegetables, and a zesty Italian vinaigrette. Whether you’re preparing a summer barbecue, picnic, or potluck, this vibrant and delicious dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it can be made ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully!
Ingredients
For the Pasta Salad:
- 16 oz tricolor rotini
- 10 oz salami, cubed
- 3/4 cup mozzarella cheese pearls
- 1 pint grape tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/2 green bell pepper, seeded and diced
- 1/2 orange bell pepper, seeded and diced
- 1/2 red bell pepper, seeded and diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, diced
- 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 4 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
For the Dressing:
- 3/4 cup Italian vinaigrette
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the tricolor rotini and cook until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Ingredients: While the pasta is cooling, chop the vegetables and cube the salami. This ensures everything is ready for easy mixing.
- Combine the Ingredients: In a large salad bowl, add the cooled pasta, cubed salami, mozzarella pearls, grape tomatoes, black olives, diced bell peppers, red onion, Parmesan cheese, and fresh parsley.
- Add the Dressing: Pour the Italian vinaigrette over the salad and sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Toss everything together until well combined.
- Chill and Serve: Cover and refrigerate the pasta salad for at least 2 1/2 hours before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, creating a richer and more flavorful dish.
Tips for the Best Pasta Salad
- Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and high-quality salami enhance the taste of the salad.
- Make it Ahead: This pasta salad tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.
- Customize It: Add ingredients like artichoke hearts, pepperoncini, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra depth of flavor.
- Serve Chilled: This dish is best enjoyed cold, making it a refreshing addition to warm-weather gatherings.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 324 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Protein: 12g
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 6g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 27mg
- Sodium: 974mg
- Potassium: 307mg
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 3g
- Vitamin A: 963 IU
- Vitamin C: 29mg
- Calcium: 78mg
- Iron: 1mg
This easy-to-make pasta salad is a must-have for any meal gathering. With its vibrant colors, fresh ingredients, and zesty dressing, it’s guaranteed to be a favorite! Enjoy!
