Italian Pasta Salad: The Best Pasta Salad Recipe
The most delicious and healthy Italian pasta salad is the one you make by yourself. This Italian pasta salad recipe is going to make you a pro at making the best Italian pasta salad.
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Knife and cutting board
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 12 oz 340g rotini or any short pasta of your choice
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1 cup cucumber diced
- 1 cup mozzarella pearls or cubed fresh mozzarella
- 1/2 cup black or Kalamata olives sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup pepperoncini optional, sliced
- 1/2 cup salami diced or julienned
- 1/4 cup freshly chopped parsley or basil optional, for garnish
For the Dressing:
- 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 3 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp salt or to taste
- 1/4 tsp black pepper or to taste
- Pinch of red pepper flakes optional, for a spicy kick
Instructions
Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions (usually about 8-10 minutes) until al dente.
- Drain and rinse under cold water to cool the pasta and stop the cooking process.
Prepare the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, oregano, basil, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Set aside.
Assemble the Salad:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, mozzarella pearls, olives, red onion, pepperoncini, and salami.
Add the Dressing:
- Pour the dressing over the pasta salad. Toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil, if desired. Serve immediately or refrigerate for at least 1 hour for the flavors to meld together.
Nutrition
Calories: 320kcal
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!