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Zesty Italian Pasta Salad

Zesty Italian Pasta Salad That Elevates Your Summer Gatherings

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Enjoy a vibrant and refreshing Zesty Italian Pasta Salad perfect for summer gatherings.
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Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 15 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 1 lb pasta (bowties, rotini, shells, or penne) Choose short noodles for better dressing adhesion.
For the Freshness
  • 1 pint cherry tomatoes Halved; add sweetness and a pop of color.
  • 1 can (6 oz) whole olives Halved; introduces briny flavor.
  • 8 oz mini mozzarella balls Provides creaminess and texture.
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan Enhances richness.
  • 3 oz salami Cut in thirds or quartered; offers a savory, meaty component.
  • 3 tbsp parsley Chopped; adds freshness and appealing color.
  • 1 small shallot Minced; gives a mild onion flavor.
For Flavoring
  • 1/2 tsp coarse kosher sea salt Enhances overall flavor.
  • 1/4 tsp ground black pepper Adds a touch of mild heat.
  • 1 cup vinaigrette Your favorite; provides moisture and flavor.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • colander
  • Refrigerator
  • Large mixing bowl

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Zesty Italian Pasta Salad
  1. Boil a large pot of water. Add 1 pound of pasta and cook according to package instructions for 8-10 minutes until al dente.
  2. Drain the pasta in a colander and rinse under cold water for about 30 seconds. Let it sit to drain completely.
  3. Chill the pasta in the refrigerator for around 10-15 minutes.
  4. Prepare the ingredients: halve 1 pint of cherry tomatoes, slice 1 can of olives, dice 3 oz of salami, and chop 3 tbsp of parsley.
  5. Once chilled, add pasta to the bowl with prepared ingredients. Toss in 8 oz of mini mozzarella balls, 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan, 1/2 tsp of kosher salt, and 1/4 tsp of black pepper.
  6. Pour in 1 cup of vinaigrette and gently toss until everything is evenly coated. Serve immediately or refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 12gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 700IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

This salad can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to 5 days. The flavors improve after sitting for a bit!

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