Italian Dressing Pasta Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Italian Dressing Pasta Salad is a vibrant and crowd-pleasing dish that combines the best of Italian flavors. The homemade Italian dressing is a standout, praised by readers as “out of this world” and “gourmet bright fresh.” The addition of pepperoncini adds a tangy kick, while Genoa salami and mozzarella pearls bring savory depth. It's a customizable, make-ahead friendly recipe perfect for potlucks, picnics, or as a hearty side dish.

Ingredients

• 1 pound rotini pasta

• ½ pound Genoa salami, diced

• ½ pound pepperoni, diced

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• ½ cup green bell pepper, diced

• ½ cup yellow bell pepper, diced

• ½ red onion, thinly sliced

• ½ cup black olives, sliced

• ½ cup pepperoncini, sliced

• 1 cup mozzarella pearls

• ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

• ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley

For the Italian Dressing:

• ½ cup extra virgin olive oil

• ¼ cup red wine vinegar

• 2 tablespoons lemon juice

• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 teaspoon sugar

• 1 teaspoon dried parsley

• 1 teaspoon dried basil

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ teaspoon onion powder

• ½ teaspoon paprika

• Salt and pepper to taste

(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 pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.

2. Prepare the Dressing: In a mason jar or mixing bowl, combine olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, grated Parmesan, sugar, dried parsley, dried basil, dried oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Shake or whisk until well combined.

3. Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, salami, pepperoni, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, red onion, black olives, pepperoncini, mozzarella pearls, Parmesan cheese, and parsley.

4. Toss with Dressing: 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 and garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Approximately 8–10

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Chill Time: At least 30 minutes

• Total Time: 50 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Omit the salami and pepperoni, and add extra vegetables like cucumbers, artichoke hearts, or sun-dried tomatoes.

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

• Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a more substantial meal.

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

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4–5 days.

• Reheating: This salad is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature. If you prefer to serve it warm, gently reheat in the microwave and add a splash of olive oil to refresh the flavors.

FAQs

How can I make the Italian dressing spicier?

Add more pepperoncini or a pinch of red pepper flakes to increase the heat level.

Can I use a store-bought Italian dressing?

While homemade dressing offers superior flavor, you can substitute with a store-bought version if short on time.

Is this pasta salad suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, by omitting the salami and pepperoni, you can create a delicious vegetarian pasta salad.

Can I prepare this salad the night before?

Absolutely! Preparing it the night before allows the flavors to meld and enhances the overall taste.

How do I prevent the pasta from becoming soggy?

Rinse the pasta under cold water after cooking to stop the cooking process and toss it with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking.

Can I add other vegetables to this salad?

Yes, feel free to add or substitute vegetables like cucumbers, carrots, or zucchini to suit your taste.

Is this salad gluten-free?

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

How can I make this salad dairy-free?

Use dairy-free cheese alternatives and ensure the dressing is made without Parmesan cheese.

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 dish for a light meal.

Conclusion

This Italian Dressing Pasta Salad is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will impress at any gathering. With its customizable ingredients and make-ahead convenience, it's a versatile dish that can be tailored to suit any palate. Whether served as a side or main dish, it's sure to be a hit at your next event.

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