Zesty Italian Pasta Salad

⏱️ 42 min 👥 12 servings 📊 Medium
Italian pasta salad
Zesty Italian Pasta Salad
Nutrition per Serving
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Calories
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Protein
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Carbs
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Fat

This is the BEST pasta salad thanks to the BEST Italian dressing that readers call: “Out of this world!” “Beyond amazing,” “The very best Italian Dressing I’ve ever had!!!” and “Gourmet bright fresh and complexly wow yummy!” Additionally, key ingredients like tangy, zippy pepperoncini, Genoa salami, and mozzarella pearls elevate this recipe and will have everyone coming back for more! The recipe can be made 24 hours ahead for stress-free entertaining while remaining amazingly bright and fresh, thanks to my expert tips!

📝 Ingredients

  • 1 recipe homemade Italian Dressing (<click for the recipe)
  • 1 lb. rotini pasta
  • 3.5-4 oz. pepperoni, (quartered (about 3/4 cup))
  • 4 oz. sliced salami, (quartered (about 3/4 cup))
  • 1 pint cherry tomatoes, (halved)
  • 1 cup black olives, (drained and halved)
  • 1 orange bell pepper, (chopped)
  • 1 green bell pepper, (chopped)
  • 1/2 cup finely diced red onion
  • 2 tablespoons chopped pepperoncini
  • 8 oz. fresh mozzarella pearls
  • Parmesan and parsley for garnish

👨‍🍳 Instructions

  1. 1Prepare the Italian Dressing according to the directions (click here for the recipe). Refrigerate until ready to use, then shake to recombine before using.
  2. 2Cook the pasta in salted water according to the package directions. Drain and add to a large serving bowl.
  3. 3Pour HALF of the Dressing over the warm pasta and toss to combine. Add the rest of the pasta salad ingredients and toss to combine.
  4. 4For best results, chill for at least 30 minutes before serving (up to 24 hours). Chill the remaining Dressing separately.
  5. 5When ready to serve, toss with the remaining Dressing and garnish with fresh parsley and Parmesan.

About the Chef & Original Recipe

This recipe was published by carlsbadcravings.com. Visit the original source for step-by-step photos, chef notes and additional details.