Are you ready to elevate your summer gatherings with a dish that bursts with flavor and freshness? I’m excited to share my Zesty Italian Pasta Salad recipe with you! This vibrant salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delightful combination of textures and tastes that will have your family and friends coming back for seconds. Perfect for quick family dinners or as a side for your summer barbecues, this is one of those easy pasta recipes that you’ll want to keep on hand!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Packed with fresh ingredients that provide a burst of flavor in every bite.
- Perfect for meal prep; it tastes even better the next day!
- Versatile enough to serve as a main dish or a side for grilled meats.
- Great for potlucks and summer picnics, sure to impress your guests!
Ingredients
To create this delicious Zesty Italian Pasta Salad, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
- ¼ cup red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- ¼ cup finely grated parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooked pasta (of your choice)
- Pepperoni slices
- Salami slices
- Cherry tomatoes, halved
- Black olives, sliced
- Bell peppers, diced
- Red onion, thinly sliced
- Pepperoncini peppers
- mozzarella pearls
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.
How to Make the Recipe
Let’s dive into the steps to create this delightful salad:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, Parmesan cheese, sugar, dried parsley, dried basil, dried oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Once combined, refrigerate the dressing until you’re ready to use it.
- Boil your pasta in salted water according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and place the pasta in a large mixing bowl.
- Pour half of the dressing over the warm pasta and mix well to ensure every piece is coated.
- Add in the pepperoni, salami, cherry tomatoes, olives, bell peppers, red onion, pepperoncini, and mozzarella pearls. Gently combine everything together.
- Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Before serving, toss the salad with the remaining dressing, garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley, and enjoy!
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
Here are some of my favorite tips to ensure your Zesty Italian Pasta Salad turns out perfectly:
- Feel free to customize the salad with your favorite ingredients. Add artichoke hearts, spinach, or even grilled chicken for a heartier meal.
- For a creamier texture, consider adding a dollop of creamy garlic pasta sauce to the mix.
- Make sure to taste and adjust the seasoning before serving. A little extra salt or pepper can make a big difference!
- If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought dressing, but I highly recommend making your own for the best flavor.
- This salad is perfect for meal prep; it keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days!
How to Serve
This Zesty Italian Pasta Salad is incredibly versatile! Here are some serving suggestions:
- Serve it as a main dish for a light lunch or dinner.
- Pair it with grilled meats for a satisfying summer meal. It’s a fantastic side dish for barbecues and picnics!
- Top it with fresh herbs or additional cheese for an extra touch of flavor.
- Consider serving it alongside other delicious dishes like Garlic Butter Beef Bites or Beef Stir Fry for a complete meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
This pasta salad is perfect for making ahead of time! Here are some storage tips:
- Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- If you plan to make it in advance, consider keeping the dressing separate until just before serving to maintain the pasta’s texture.
- For a quick weeknight dinner idea, prepare the salad on the weekend and enjoy it throughout the week!
In conclusion, my Zesty Italian Pasta Salad is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of fresh flavors and vibrant ingredients. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or looking for a quick family dinner, this salad is sure to impress. So grab your ingredients, and let’s get cooking!
Zesty Italian Pasta Salad Recipe
Ingredients
Method
- Whisk together olive oil, vinegar, lemon juice, Parmesan, sugar, herbs, spices, salt, and pepper. Chill until ready.
- Cook pasta in salted water, drain, and combine with half of the dressing.
- Add pepperoni, salami, vegetables, and cheese to the pasta. Toss with remaining dressing.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Garnish with Parmesan and parsley before serving.