This Deli-Style Pasta Salad is a colorful, flavorful, and refreshing dish perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a quick weekday lunch. Packed with tender pasta, crunchy vegetables, tangy olives, savory salami, and a zesty homemade Italian dressing, this salad captures the essence of a classic deli favorite. The combination of flavors and textures makes every bite delightful and satisfying. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or a light main course, this pasta salad is sure to become a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to customize with your favorite ingredients, making it versatile and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz (340g) rotini pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup green bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1 cup cubed salami or pepperoni
- 1/2 cup cubed mozzarella or cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
For the Dressing:
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool. Set aside.
- Prepare the Vegetables and Add-ins: In a large bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red and green bell peppers, red onion, black olives, cubed salami or pepperoni, cubed cheese, and parsley.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, dried oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Combine Salad and Dressing: Add the cooled pasta to the bowl with the vegetables and add-ins. Pour the dressing over the top and toss everything together until evenly coated.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the pasta salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and extra parsley if desired. Serve chilled and enjoy!
This salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it a convenient option for meal prep or gatherings.
