Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing is a colorful and flavorful dish that makes a perfect side for picnics, barbecues, or as a light lunch. This refreshing salad combines al dente pasta with a medley of fresh vegetables like cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, cucumbers, and olives, all tossed in a tangy and herby Italian dressing. The addition of mozzarella cheese and salami provides a rich and savory contrast to the crisp vegetables, creating a balanced and satisfying dish. Easy to prepare and adaptable to your taste, this pasta salad can be made ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Serve it chilled for a delightful and nutritious meal that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces rotini or fusilli pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/2 cup green olives, sliced
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup mozzarella balls (bocconcini), halved
- 1/2 cup sliced salami or pepperoni (optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
For the Italian Dressing
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey or sugar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool. Set aside.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl or a jar with a lid, combine the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, oregano, basil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Whisk or shake until well combined.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, black olives, green olives, red onion, mozzarella balls, and salami or pepperoni, if using.
- Dress the Salad: Pour the Italian dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
- Chill the Salad: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve: Before serving, add the chopped basil and parsley, and toss the salad again. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing is a versatile and delicious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy its vibrant flavors and textures as a refreshing addition to your meal!
