This pasta salad is a vibrant and satisfying dish that brings together tender pasta, fresh veggies, savory salami, creamy mozzarella, and a bold homemade Italian dressing. It’s perfect for picnics, potlucks, or as a flavorful side dish for any meal. The combination of tangy olives, juicy cherry tomatoes, and zesty pepperoncini creates a delicious medley of flavors that only gets better with time.
The homemade Italian dressing is the star of the show, balancing tanginess, herbs, and a touch of sweetness for a salad that’s full of flavor. Whether you serve it fresh or enjoy it the next day, this pasta salad is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Fresh and Flavorful: Packed with fresh veggies, herbs, and a tangy dressing.
• Easy to Make: Simple steps and pantry staples make it an effortless dish.
• Great for Leftovers: Tastes even better after sitting in the fridge, as the flavors meld together.
Pasta Salad Ingredients
• 1 pound uncooked pasta (rotini recommended)
• 3 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese balls, halved
• 1 pound salami or summer sausage, cubed
• ¾ cup kalamata olives, sliced
• ¾ cup pepperoncini, sliced (optional, but highly recommended)
• ½ cup sliced red onion
• ½ cup fresh parsley, chopped
Italian Pasta Salad Dressing
• 1½ cups olive oil
• ¼ cup white vinegar (or red wine vinegar)
• ¼ cup water
• 2 tablespoons coarse sea salt (see notes)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced, or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 2 teaspoons dried basil
• Black pepper to taste
• Optional: Fresh parsley, basil, or chives
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
1. Cook the pasta according to package directions in salted water for added flavor.
2. Drain and let it cool slightly. Toss with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
1. Blend the dressing ingredients together in a blender until smooth, or shake them in a jar for easy preparation.
Step 3: Combine the Ingredients
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, salami, kalamata olives, pepperoncini, red onion, and fresh parsley.
2. Pour about three-fourths of the dressing over the salad and toss to combine. Reserve the remaining dressing for leftovers.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
1. Cover and refrigerate the pasta salad for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld.
2. Taste before serving and add more dressing if needed. Garnish with additional fresh herbs if desired.
Tips
• Salt in the Dressing: The dressing calls for 2 tablespoons of salt, which may seem like a lot, but it ensures the flavors are bold and well-seasoned. Adjust to taste if needed.
• Custom Add-ins: Add roasted red peppers, artichoke hearts, or cucumbers for extra flavor and crunch.
• Pasta Tip: Use short, sturdy pasta shapes like rotini or penne that hold the dressing and ingredients well.
Storage Options
• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The salad tastes best the day after making it as the flavors deepen over time.
• Dressing Storage: Keep leftover dressing in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to 1 week.
This pasta salad is an irresistible blend of textures and flavors, perfect for any occasion. With its tangy dressing, hearty mix-ins, and ease of preparation, it’s a dish that will quickly become a favorite. Make it today and enjoy a bright, delicious addition to your table!
