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–+ servings
Italian Pasta Salad

Ultimate Italian Pasta Salad That's Bursting with Flavor

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This Italian Pasta Salad is a vibrant, customizable dish perfect for summer picnics and gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 8 oz Pasta (penne or fusilli) Choose any type for best texture
  • 1 Green Bell Pepper Adds crunchy freshness
  • 1 Red Bell Pepper Offers sweetness
  • 1 Red Onion Provides a sharp flavor
  • 1 cup Black Olives Adds a briny richness
  • 6 oz Salami Brings savory goodness
  • 8 oz Mozzarella Cheese Contributes creamy texture
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes Ensures freshness
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Enhances flavor
For the Dressing
  • 1/2 cup Italian Dressing Zesty blend to tie it all together
  • to taste Salt & Pepper Essential for seasoning

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Mixing Bowl
  • cutting board
  • knife

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. Chop the green and red bell peppers, red onion, and cherry tomatoes into bite-sized pieces. Slice the salami and black olives.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with the chopped vegetables, olives, salami, mozzarella, and cherry tomatoes. Drizzle with Italian dressing and toss until well-coated.
  4. Season with salt and pepper, then refrigerate for at least one hour to let the flavors meld.
  5. Serve chilled, stirring gently before serving to redistribute the dressing.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 12gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 820mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 25IUVitamin C: 60mgCalcium: 25mgIron: 10mg

Notes

For best results, chill the salad for at least an hour to enhance flavors. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days and consider adding more dressing before serving.

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