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Transform your next gathering with this Italian Pasta Salad, a vibrant mix of colorful vegetables, tender pasta, savory meats, and tangy dressing. Perfect for summer cookouts, potlucks, and family dinners, this dish combines fresh ingredients with simple preparation. Featuring bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, and a medley of flavorful herbs, this salad is a versatile addition to any table.

Ingredients

1 lb. Rotini pasta
1 small red bell pepper, diced (about 1 cup)
1 small green bell pepper, diced (about 1 cup)
1 pint cherry tomatoes, sliced
8 oz. Mozzarella pearls (about 1 ¼ cups)
¾ cup chopped salami (4-5 oz.)
¾ cup mini pepperoni
1 cup sliced black olives
½ cup finely diced red onion
¼ cup fresh chopped parsley
1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 ¼ cup Italian salad dressing (see notes for homemade recipe)

Instructions

Boil the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Salt the water generously (use about 1 tbsp. kosher salt).
- Add the pasta and cook to al dente (or 30 seconds shy). Set a timer to avoid overcooking.
- Drain the pasta and spread it out on a tray or parchment paper. Drizzle with 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil and let it cool.
Prepare the Salad:
- While the pasta boils and cools, prepare the remaining salad ingredients. Dice all ingredients into equal sizes for consistency. Dab off any excess moisture from the vegetables using paper towels.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the diced vegetables, Mozzarella pearls, salami, pepperoni, black olives, red onion, parsley, and Parmesan cheese. Toss with Italian dressing until evenly coated.
Chill and Serve:
- If possible, chill the salad for 2-3 hours before serving to enhance the flavors.
- If preparing 8-12 hours ahead of time, toss with an additional 1/2 cup of dressing before serving, as the pasta may absorb some of the dressing during storage.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bursting with Flavor: Each bite is packed with a mix of tangy, savory, and fresh ingredients.
Perfect for Gatherings: A crowd-pleaser for potlucks, picnics, and parties.
Easy to Make Ahead: Prepares well in advance, making it convenient for busy schedules.

Tips

Pasta Choice: Rotini holds the dressing and toppings well, but penne or bowties are great alternatives.
Cooling the Pasta: Spread it out to cool quickly and prevent sticking.
Finely Dice Ingredients: Uniformly cut ingredients ensure the best texture and balance of flavors.

Variations and Substitutions

Vegetarian Option: Omit the salami and pepperoni and add extra vegetables like zucchini or shredded carrots.
Cheese Alternatives: Swap Mozzarella pearls for crumbled Feta or shredded Cheddar.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta for a dietary-friendly option.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought dressing?
Yes, any good-quality Italian dressing works well. However, homemade dressing enhances the flavor even more.

How long does pasta salad keep?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Toss with extra dressing as needed before serving.

Can I use other meats?
Sure! Try diced ham, cooked chicken, or turkey for variety.

Serving Suggestions

Serve as a side dish with grilled meats like chicken or steak.
Pair with garlic bread and a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Perfect as a light lunch or picnic dish.

Suggestions

Double the recipe for larger gatherings or meal prepping.
Add a splash of balsamic glaze before serving for extra flavor.
Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a vibrant presentation.