Antipasto Pasta is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines all the best elements of a traditional antipasto platter with the heartiness of pasta. This colorful meal is loaded with a variety of cured meats, cheeses, olives, artichokes, and roasted vegetables, all tossed together in a light vinaigrette. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a crowd-pleasing potluck dish. The mix of textures and flavors in each bite—salty, tangy, savory, and slightly sweet—makes it a satisfying meal that’s both fresh and comforting.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or fusilli work well)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 1/2 cup marinated artichoke hearts, chopped
- 1/2 cup roasted red peppers, sliced
- 1/4 cup pepperoncini, sliced
- 1/4 cup salami, chopped
- 1/4 cup prosciutto, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), halved
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, shaved
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
For the vinaigrette:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool.
- Prepare the vinaigrette: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Assemble the salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, olives, artichoke hearts, roasted red peppers, pepperoncini, salami, prosciutto, and mozzarella balls.
- Toss and serve: Pour the vinaigrette over the pasta mixture and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly. Garnish with shaved Parmesan and fresh basil.
- Chill (optional): For best flavor, chill the pasta salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Enjoy this delightful Antipasto Pasta warm or cold, perfect for any occasion!
