Go Back
+ servings
Zesty Italian Pasta Salad

Zesty Italian Pasta Salad: A Flavorful Make-Ahead Delight

This Zesty Italian Pasta Salad is vibrant, satisfying, and perfect for potlucks or busy weeknight dinners.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 8 ounces Pasta Use al dente for optimal texture.
  • 1 cup Mozzarella Pearls Fresh mozzarella adds creamy texture.
  • 1/2 cup Genoa Salami Offers savory richness.
  • 1/2 cup Pepperoni Adds a slightly spicy note.
  • 1/2 cup Pepperoncini Provides a tangy crunch.
For the Dressing
  • 1/4 cup Red Wine Vinegar Key for acidity.
  • 1/3 cup Olive Oil
  • 1 whole Lemon Juice of one lemon.
  • to taste teaspoon Dried Herbs e.g., oregano, basil.
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan Cheese Freshly grated for best flavor.
  • to taste tablespoon Fresh Parsley Optional but recommended for garnish.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Medium-sized bowl
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Colander
  • Whisk

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Rinse under cold water and drain thoroughly.
  2. In a bowl, combine red wine vinegar, olive oil, lemon juice, and dried herbs. Whisk well, then fold in Parmesan cheese.
  3. In a large bowl, toss the cooled pasta, mozzarella pearls, salami, pepperoni, and pepperoncini. Add half the dressing and toss to coat.
  4. Cover and chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to meld flavors.
  5. Before serving, toss again and drizzle remaining dressing over salad. Garnish with parsley if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 12gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 250mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 400IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

This salad can be customized with your favorite meats or veggies, and is a crowd-pleaser at gatherings.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!