Homemade Zesty Italian Pasta Salad

Homemade Zesty Italian Pasta Salad is a must-have at summer potlucks and BBQs...or for a light, flavorful lunch. It's easy to make and ready in just about 15 minutes with a homemade zesty Italian dressing, lots of veggies, and extra cheese. A classic favorite!

📝 Ingredients

• 1 pound rotini or bowtie pasta (or another small shape)
• 1 bell pepper (diced)
• 1 cup grape tomatoes (halved)
• 1 cup black olives (sliced)
• 1 cup cucumber (diced and seeds removed as desired)
• 1/2 cup banana peppers or pepperoncini (sliced)
• 2 Tablespoons shallot (finely chopped)
• 8 ounces mozzarella pearls (or diced cheese)
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese*
• 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (1/2 teaspoon for less spice)
• 1/2-1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 Tablespoon granulated sugar
• 2 1/2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 2 teaspoons fine sea salt
• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil

👨‍🍳 Instructions

1. 1Bring a large saucepan of water to a boil and add a generous pinch of salt. Once boiling, add the pasta and cook to al dente, according to package directions. I recommend testing the pasta a few minutes before the box suggests to make sure it is firm with a bite but done (this is al dente). Once it's cooked, drain and rinse with cold water.
2. 2Meanwhile, prepare the remaining veggies and set aside in a large bowl until ready to toss with the dressing and pasta.
3. 3Whisk together all dressing ingredients except the oil, then slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking until it is combined. You can also shake all the dressing ingredients vigorously in a jar until combined.
4. 4When the pasta is ready, toss in a large bowl with the veggies and cheese, and combine with the dressing until everything is completely coated. Chill in the fridge until ready to serve. You can serve the salad immediately, it just may be slightly warm from the pasta. A little time allows the flavors to meld together, too.