Description
Zesty Italian Pasta Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a summer picnic or a festive gathering. This crowd-pleaser features a delightful mix of zippy pepperoncini, savory salami, and creamy mozzarella pearls, all tossed in a homemade Italian dressing that elevates the entire dish. It’s not just delicious—this pasta salad can be prepared a day in advance, making it an ideal choice for stress-free entertaining. Impress your guests with this colorful and tasty salad that feeds a crowd!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb rotini pasta
- 3.5–4 oz pepperoni (quartered)
- 4 oz sliced salami (quartered)
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella pearls
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 1 cup black olives (halved)
- 1 orange bell pepper (chopped)
- 1 green bell pepper (chopped)
- ½ cup finely diced red onion
- 2 tablespoons chopped pepperoncini
- Homemade Italian dressing
Instructions
- Prepare the homemade Italian dressing as directed and refrigerate.
- Cook the rotini pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and transfer to a large mixing bowl.
- Pour half of the dressing over the warm pasta and toss gently.
- Add all remaining ingredients to the bowl and mix well.
- Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving; up to 24 hours for enhanced flavors.
- Toss with remaining dressing before serving and garnish with fresh parsley and Parmesan.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 40mg