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This hearty Italian Pasta Salad has become my weekend lunch essential, combining vibrant vegetables, savory salami, and creamy mozzarella for a satisfying meal that's effortless to prepare ahead of time.
I first created this pasta salad for a neighborhood block party last summer, and it was the first dish to disappear. Now my family requests it weekly, especially when we're craving something fresh yet substantial.
Ingredients
- Rotini pasta: creates perfect pockets to catch the dressing and small ingredients
- Salami: adds a rich savory element that makes this salad more satisfying than vegetable-only versions
- Cherry tomatoes: provide juicy bursts of flavor and bright color
- English cucumber: offers refreshing crunch without the bitterness of regular cucumbers
- Red onion: delivers a sharp flavor contrast and beautiful purple color
- Fresh mozzarella pearls: create creamy pockets throughout the salad
- Black olives and kalamata olives: contribute briny Mediterranean flavor
- Roasted red peppers: introduce a sweet smoky element that elevates the entire dish
- Fresh parsley: brightens the heavy ingredients with herbaceous notes
- Homemade Italian dressing: ties everything together with tangy perfection
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil, add 1-2 tablespoons of salt, then add rotini. Cook until just al dente, usually 7-9 minutes depending on your brand. Test frequently toward the end as pasta that's too soft will break apart in the salad. Drain thoroughly and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- While the pasta cooks, halve your cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber into bite-sized pieces, and finely dice the red onion. Chop roasted red peppers coarsely and mince the fresh parsley. Having everything prepped before the pasta finishes ensures quick assembly while the pasta is at the perfect temperature.
- Combine and Dress:
- Transfer cooled pasta to a large mixing bowl. Add prepared vegetables, olives, salami strips, and mozzarella pearls. Toss gently to distribute ingredients evenly. Pour Italian dressing over only the portion you plan to serve immediately, tossing until well coated. This prevents the pasta from absorbing all the dressing when stored.
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The roasted red peppers are my secret ingredient that transforms this from an ordinary pasta salad into something special. I discovered their importance one summer when I substituted them for fresh peppers, and the smoky sweetness created a depth of flavor that had everyone asking for my recipe.
Make-Ahead Tips
This pasta salad actually improves with time as the flavors meld together. You can prepare all components up to 24 hours in advance, storing the dressing separately from the pasta mixture. Combine them about 1-3 hours before serving for optimal flavor development while maintaining the perfect texture. The vegetables will release natural juices that blend beautifully with the dressing.
Ingredient Substitutions
This recipe welcomes adaptations based on your preferences or what you have available. Try swapping the mozzarella for feta cheese for a tangier profile. Not a fan of salami? Substitute grilled chicken, tuna, or chickpeas for a different protein source. The pasta shape can be changed too. Farfalle, penne, or fusilli work wonderfully in place of rotini, though I prefer shapes with ridges or twists that capture more dressing in each bite.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this vibrant pasta salad as a standalone lunch or pair it with grilled meats for a complete dinner. It makes an excellent side dish for backyard barbecues alongside burgers or grilled chicken. For a beautiful presentation, serve in a large glass bowl that showcases the colorful layers of ingredients, garnished with additional fresh herbs and a drizzle of high-quality olive oil just before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What type of pasta works best for this dish?
Rotini is ideal due to its shape, which holds onto the dressing well. However, penne or bowtie pasta can also be great alternatives.
- → Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad ahead of time. Add the dressing just before serving or let it marinate for 1-3 hours for enhanced flavor.
- → Can I substitute salami with another ingredient?
Absolutely! You can use pepperoni, prosciutto, or even grilled chicken as a substitute for salami.
- → What other vegetables can I add?
Feel free to add bell peppers, artichoke hearts, or zucchini for extra variety and crunch.
- → How can I make my own Italian dressing?
Combine olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic, oregano, and mustard in a jar. Shake well to emulsify, and add salt and pepper to taste.