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–+ servings
Italian Dressing Pasta Salad

Tasty Italian Dressing Pasta Salad: Customizable & Fresh!

Enjoy a vibrant and fresh Italian Dressing Pasta Salad, perfect for summer picnics and gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: PASTA
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 12 ounces Rotini Any preferred pasta can be substituted.
  • 6 ounces Genoa Salami Can substitute with any favorite deli meat.
  • 4 ounces Pepperoni Turkey pepperoni is a lower-fat alternative.
  • 1 pint Cherry Tomatoes Can substitute with grape tomatoes if necessary.
  • 1 each Green Bell Pepper One green for earthiness.
  • 1 each Orange Bell Pepper Can substitute with any mixed bell peppers.
  • 1 small Red Onion Can substitute with green onion for a milder taste.
  • 1 cup Black Olives Can substitute with Kalamata olives.
  • 1 cup Pepperoncini Can substitute with banana peppers.
  • 8 ounces Mozzarella Pearls Can use diced fresh mozzarella if pearls are unavailable.
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Can substitute with Pecorino Romano.
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley Can use basil for a different flavor profile.
For the Dressing
  • 1/2 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil Use high-quality for optimal flavor.
  • 1/4 cup Red Wine Vinegar Can substitute with apple cider vinegar.
  • 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice Can skip if necessary.
  • 1/4 cup Freshly Grated Parmesan Grate on the finest side for best results.
  • 1 teaspoon Sugar Can substitute with honey or agave syrup.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Herbs Adjust according to your taste preferences.

Equipment

  • pot
  • Large Serving Bowl
  • whisk

Method
 

How to Make Italian Dressing Pasta Salad
  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil, then add the rotini. Cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and transfer to a large serving bowl.
  2. Dress It Warm: While the pasta is still warm, drizzle half of the homemade dressing over it. Toss gently to combine.
  3. Add Ingredients: Into the bowl, add the salami, pepperoni, tomatoes, bell peppers, onion, olives, pepperoncini, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Toss everything together until well mixed.
  4. Chill for Flavor: Cover the salad and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 24 hours.
  5. Final Touches: Before serving, toss with the remaining dressing and garnish with parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 10gFat: 24gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 14gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 720mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 6mg

Notes

Consider adding a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for a spicy kick! Always add extra dressing before serving, as the pasta soaks it up over time.

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