Easy Italian Dressing Pasta Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Best Homemade Italian Dressing: The homemade dressing is a tangy, herby blend with a touch of Parmesan, elevating the entire salad.

• Vibrant Ingredients: Pepperoncini adds a tangy kick, while Genoa salami and pepperoni bring a savory, spicy flair.

• Customizable: Easily adjust the ingredients to suit your taste preferences.

• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the salad in advance for stress-free entertaining.

Ingredients

• Rotini pasta

• Genoa salami, sliced

• Pepperoni, sliced

• Cherry tomatoes, halved

• Green bell pepper, diced

• Yellow or orange bell pepper, diced

• Red onion, finely chopped

• Black olives, halved

• Pepperoncini, sliced

• Mozzarella pearls

• Fresh parsley, chopped

• Parmesan cheese, grated

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

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the rotini according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.

2. Prepare the Dressing: In a bowl or jar, combine olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, garlic, dried herbs, salt, and pepper. Whisk or shake until well combined.

3. Assemble the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with salami, pepperoni, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, red onion, olives, pepperoncini, and mozzarella pearls.

4. Dress the Salad: Pour half of the prepared dressing over the salad and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

5. Serve: Before serving, toss the salad with the remaining dressing. Garnish with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Approximately 8 servings

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 10 minutes

• Chill Time: At least 30 minutes

Variations

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

• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary restrictions.

• Cheese Alternatives: Substitute mozzarella pearls with feta or provolone for a different flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

• Reheating: This salad is best enjoyed cold and does not require reheating.

FAQs

How long can pasta salad sit out?

Pasta salad should not sit out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to prevent bacterial growth.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, this salad can be made up to 24 hours in advance. Just reserve some dressing to toss with the salad before serving to maintain its freshness.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While rotini is ideal for holding the dressing, you can substitute with penne, fusilli, or farfalle.

Is this salad gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Can I add protein to this salad?

Yes, grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas can be added for extra protein.

How do I prevent the pasta from becoming mushy?

Cook the pasta al dente, rinse it under cold water after draining, and toss it with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking.

Can I use store-bought dressing?

While homemade dressing adds the best flavor, you can use store-bought Italian dressing if you're short on time.

Is this salad suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, by omitting the salami and pepperoni, this salad becomes vegetarian-friendly.

Can I freeze this pasta salad?

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

How can I make the salad spicier?

Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of red pepper flakes to the salad for an extra kick.

Conclusion

This Italian Dressing Pasta Salad is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, making it a perfect addition to any meal or gathering. Its versatility allows for numerous variations to suit different tastes and dietary needs. With its vibrant ingredients and homemade dressing, it's sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

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Easy Italian Dressing Pasta Salad

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A vibrant and flavorful pasta salad featuring a tangy homemade Italian dressing, zesty pepperoncini, and a medley of fresh ingredients. Perfect for gatherings, picnics, or as a side dish.

• Author: Janet
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings
• Category: Salad
• Method: Stovetop, Refrigerate
• Cuisine: Italian
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Rotini pasta

Genoa salami, sliced

Pepperoni, sliced

Cherry tomatoes, halved

Green bell pepper, diced

Yellow or orange bell pepper, diced

Red onion, finely chopped

Black olives, halved

Pepperoncini, sliced

Mozzarella pearls

Fresh parsley, chopped

Parmesan cheese, grated

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Instructions

1. In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the rotini according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
2. In a bowl or jar, combine olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, garlic, dried herbs, salt, and pepper. Whisk or shake until well combined.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with salami, pepperoni, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, red onion, olives, pepperoncini, and mozzarella pearls.
4. Pour half of the prepared dressing over the salad and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Before serving, toss the salad with the remaining dressing. Garnish with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese.

Notes

• Vegetarian Version: Omit the salami and pepperoni, and add more vegetables like cucumbers or artichoke hearts.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary restrictions.
• Cheese Alternatives: Substitute mozzarella pearls with feta or provolone for a different flavor profile.
• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• To make it spicier, add sliced jalapeños or a dash of red pepper flakes.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 10g
• Cholesterol: 30mg