Classic Pasta Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Classic Pasta Salad offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The tri-color rotini provides a fun visual appeal, while the combination of cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, red onion, olives, mozzarella, and pepperoni adds freshness and savory depth. Tossed in a tangy homemade vinaigrette, this salad is as flavorful as it is colorful. It's also versatile—feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins.

Ingredients

• 24 ounces tri-color rotini pasta, uncooked

• 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved

• 12 ounces sliced pepperoni, chopped

• 1 red onion, diced

• 1 green bell pepper, diced

• 16 ounces mozzarella cheese, cubed

• 1 cup grated parmesan cheese

• 8 ounces olives, sliced

Vinaigrette Dressing:

• 1 ½ cups olive oil

• ½ cup red wine vinegar

• 2 tablespoons Italian seasoning

• 2 teaspoons garlic powder

• 1 ½ teaspoons salt

• 1 teaspoon pepper

• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the rotini pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water until the pasta reaches room temperature.

2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta with cherry tomatoes, pepperoni, red onion, bell pepper, mozzarella, parmesan, and olives.

3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to make the vinaigrette dressing.

4. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss until evenly coated.

5. Refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

6. Before serving, give the salad a quick toss to redistribute the dressing.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 24

• Prep Time: 25 minutes

• Resting Time: 1 hour

• Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Omit the pepperoni and add extra vegetables like cucumbers, zucchini, or artichoke hearts.

• Cheese Options: Substitute mozzarella with feta, cheddar, or fresh mozzarella balls for a different flavor profile.

• Protein Add-ins:ham for a heartier salad. Incorporate grilled chicken, turkey, or ham for a heartier salad.

• Dressing Alternatives: Use a store-bought Italian or vinaigrette dressing if short on time.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover pasta salad in a tightly sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If the salad appears dry after sitting, add a splash of olive oil and vinegar and toss to coat before serving. The oil in the vinaigrette may solidify when chilled; allow the salad to sit at room temperature for about 20-30 minutes and toss before serving to restore its texture.

FAQs

Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?

Yes, this pasta salad can be made up to a day before serving. Refrigerate it tightly covered, and toss before serving to redistribute the dressing.

What pasta shapes work best for pasta salad?

Medium-sized pasta shapes like rotini, macaroni, orecchiette, or shells are ideal as they hold the dressing well and provide a satisfying bite.

How do I prevent the pasta from becoming mushy?

To avoid mushy pasta, cook it al dente, rinse with cold water after draining, and toss with the dressing while the pasta is at room temperature.

Can I use a different type of vinegar?

Yes, you can substitute red wine vinegar with apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar, depending on your flavor preference.

Is this salad gluten-free?

No, this salad contains regular pasta, which is not gluten-free. To make it gluten-free, use a gluten-free pasta alternative.

Can I add fruits to this salad?

While not traditional, adding fruits like grapes or apples can introduce a sweet contrast to the savory ingredients.

How can I make this salad spicier?

Increase the amount of red pepper flakes in the dressing or add diced jalapeños to the salad for an extra kick.

Can I freeze this pasta salad?

It's not recommended to freeze pasta salad, as the texture of the pasta and vegetables may change upon thawing.

What can I serve this pasta salad with?

This salad pairs well with grilled meats, sandwiches, or as a standalone light meal.

How do I adjust the recipe for fewer servings?

To reduce the recipe, adjust the ingredient quantities accordingly. For instance, halving the recipe would yield 12 servings.

Conclusion

Classic Pasta Salad is a versatile and flavorful dish that can be tailored to suit various tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you're preparing it for a large gathering or a small family meal, this salad is sure to be a hit. Its combination of fresh ingredients and zesty dressing makes it a refreshing addition to any table.