Italian Pasta Salad

I always look forward to potluck season because that’s when my Italian pasta salad gets to shine and it’s honestly one of those dishes that makes everyone come back for seconds. The first time I made it I had just moved into a new apartment and hosted a small housewarming and I wanted something easy that felt festive but also light enough to go with everything.

So I raided my pantry and fridge and threw together some rotini pasta with olives salami and cherry tomatoes and to my surprise it turned out to be a total hit. Now it’s the salad I bring to barbecues and beach picnics and casual Sunday brunches because it’s colorful flavorful and comes together in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

• Here’s what I use for this recipe. Feel free to make swaps depending on your taste!
• Rotini pasta – The perfect pasta shape for catching dressing and mix-ins in every bite.
• Cherry tomatoes – Juicy and sweet they add brightness and color.
• Mozzarella pearls – Creamy and mild they balance out the bold flavors beautifully.
• Black olives – Bring a briny punch that gives the salad a classic Mediterranean twist.
• Red onion – Adds crunch and just the right sharpness to contrast the cheese and tomatoes.
• Salami slices – These add savory richness and a touch of indulgence.
• Fresh basil – A must for that fresh Italian flavor and fragrance.
• Italian dressing – Ties everything together with tangy herbs and oil for a zesty finish.

Tools You’ll Need

• Large pot – Used for boiling the pasta to a perfect al dente texture.
• Colander – Helps drain the pasta quickly so it doesn’t overcook or turn mushy.
• Large mixing bowl – Ideal for tossing all the ingredients evenly without making a mess.
• Sharp knife – Makes slicing veggies and meats a breeze.
• Cutting board – Keeps your workspace organized and clean.
• Measuring cup – Useful for adding just the right amount of dressing.

Instructions

Step 1

I start by boiling a pot of salted water then I add the rotini pasta and cook it until just al dente. I make sure to rinse it under cold water after draining so it stops cooking and cools down fast.

Step 2

While the pasta cooks I prep the mix-ins. I halve the cherry tomatoes slice the red onion into thin slivers and chop the basil roughly so it’s not overpowering in any bite.

Step 3

I cut the salami into bite-sized rounds and set aside the mozzarella pearls. If they’re packed in water I drain them and pat them dry to keep the salad from getting soggy.

Step 4

Once the pasta has cooled I transfer it to a large bowl and gently mix in all the vegetables meats cheese and herbs. I like to toss everything lightly so the ingredients don’t get squished.

Step 5

Then I pour the Italian dressing over everything and toss again until the salad is well-coated and glossy. I usually taste and add more dressing or basil as needed.

Step 6

I like to let the salad chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving so the flavors have time to mingle and deepen.

Tips

If you’re making this ahead of time I recommend keeping a little extra dressing on hand to refresh the salad right before serving. I’ve also swapped in pepperoni or prosciutto when I’m out of salami and added roasted red peppers for more depth. And don’t forget freshly grated Parmesan on top if you want even more flavor!

Ways to Serve

This Italian pasta salad is perfect for summer cookouts or as a vibrant side for grilled chicken or fish. It also makes a great picnic dish or a light lunch served with crusty bread and sparkling water. Sometimes I even top it with a few arugula leaves for a peppery twist!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Italian pasta salad ahead of time?

Yes Italian pasta salad actually tastes better after a few hours in the fridge as the flavors meld together beautifully.

What pasta works best for Italian pasta salad?

I recommend rotini penne or farfalle because they all hold onto the dressing and ingredients really well.

Is Italian pasta salad served cold?

Yes it’s best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature which makes it great for picnics and outdoor events.

How long does Italian pasta salad last in the fridge?

It stays fresh for 3 to 4 days in an airtight container so it’s perfect for meal prep too.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope this colorful and flavor packed Italian pasta salad finds a spot in your summer lineup! It’s one of those dishes that makes hosting easy and eating even better. Let me know how yours turns out and if you add your own personal twist!

Happy Cooking!

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