This Italian Pasta Salad is a fresh and vibrant dish packed with crisp vegetables, tangy dressing, and savory goodness. Perfect for meal prep, picnics, or potlucks, this easy-to-make salad is both satisfying and refreshing. With its colorful ingredients and bold flavors, it’s a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy – Ready in just 25 minutes.
- Perfect for gatherings – Great for potlucks, picnics, and barbecues.
- Make-ahead friendly – Tastes even better after chilling.
- Customizable – Easily adapt with your favorite ingredients.
- Full of flavor – A zesty homemade dressing ties everything together.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Salad:
- 12 oz rotini pasta (or any short pasta)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- ½ cup red bell pepper, diced
- ½ cup yellow bell pepper, diced
- ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
- ½ cup black olives, sliced
- ½ cup mozzarella pearls (or diced fresh mozzarella)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup salami, diced (optional)
- ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
For the Dressing:
- ⅓ cup olive oil
- 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Directions
1. Cook the Pasta
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
2. Assemble the Salad
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell peppers, red onion, black olives, mozzarella, Parmesan, and salami (if using).
3. Make the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
4. Mix Everything Together
- Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss until evenly coated.
- Garnish with fresh basil and chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving to enhance flavors.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Calories: Approximately 320 kcal per serving
Variations
- Vegetarian option – Omit the salami for a meat-free version.
- Add protein – Include grilled chicken, tuna, or chickpeas for extra protein.
- Use a different cheese – Try feta, goat cheese, or provolone instead of mozzarella.
- Make it gluten-free – Use gluten-free pasta for a wheat-free version.
- Extra crunch – Add toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Best enjoyed cold, but if needed, let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving.
- Make-ahead tip: Prepare the salad and dressing separately, then combine just before serving for the freshest taste.
FAQs
1. Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?
Yes! In fact, it tastes even better after a few hours as the flavors meld together.
2. What pasta shape works best?
Rotini, penne, or bowtie pasta hold the dressing well and work best.
3. How do I prevent the pasta from sticking together?
Rinse it under cold water and toss it with a little olive oil before adding other ingredients.
4. Can I use store-bought dressing?
Yes, but homemade dressing provides the best fresh flavors.
5. How can I make this salad healthier?
Use whole wheat pasta and reduce the cheese for a lighter version.
6. Can I substitute the red wine vinegar?
Yes, white wine vinegar or lemon juice can work as alternatives.
7. What can I serve with this pasta salad?
It pairs well with grilled meats, sandwiches, or as a side to a main dish.
8. How do I keep the salad from getting soggy?
Add the dressing just before serving to keep the veggies crisp.
9. Can I use fresh herbs besides basil?
Yes! Try parsley or oregano for a different twist.
10. What’s the best way to transport this for a picnic?
Store it in an airtight container and keep it chilled with an ice pack until ready to serve.
Conclusion
Italian Pasta Salad is a fresh, flavorful dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a summer picnic, meal prepping for the week, or bringing it to a potluck, this salad is a guaranteed hit. Try different variations and enjoy a taste of Italy in every bite!
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Italian Pasta Salad – A Fresh and Flavorful Dish
This Italian Pasta Salad is a vibrant mix of crisp veggies, mozzarella, and savory ingredients tossed in a tangy homemade dressing. Perfect for meal prep, picnics, or potlucks, this refreshing dish is easy to make and bursting with Mediterranean flavors. Enjoy it as a side dish or a light meal!
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 12 oz rotini pasta (or any short pasta)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- ½ cup red bell pepper, diced
- ½ cup yellow bell pepper, diced
- ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
- ½ cup black olives, sliced
- ½ cup mozzarella pearls (or diced fresh mozzarella)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup salami, diced (optional)
- ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
For the Dressing:
- ⅓ cup olive oil
- 3 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
- Boil pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
2. Mix the Salad
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell peppers, red onion, black olives, mozzarella, Parmesan, and salami (if using).
3. Make the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
4. Combine and Chill
- Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss until evenly coated.
- Garnish with fresh basil and chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Make it vegetarian: Skip the salami or replace it with chickpeas for extra protein.
- Extra crunch: Add toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds.
- Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free pasta.
- Make ahead: This salad tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salads
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Italian, Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
