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Vibrant Italian pasta salad with salami, mozzarella, and fresh veggies in a bowl at sunny picnic. No-mayo dressing.

Easy Italian Pasta Salad Recipe

recipessoft.com
Your ultimate Italian pasta salad guide! Easy, crowd-pleasing recipe with tangy dressing, fresh ingredients & make-ahead tips. Perfect for BBQs!
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 32 minutes
Course Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine Indian
Servings 8 8 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound rotini or penne pasta
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), halved
  • 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup black olives, pitted and sliced
  • 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions
 

  • Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking process. Set aside to cool completely.
  • Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined.
  • Prepare the vegetables: While pasta cools, halve the cherry tomatoes, slice the red onion, chop the sun-dried tomatoes, and slice the olives. Chop the fresh basil and parsley.
  • Assemble the salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, red onion, olives, and sun-dried tomatoes.
  • Add dressing and herbs: Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently to coat. Add the fresh basil and parsley, then toss again.
  • Add cheese: Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the salad and give it a final gentle toss.
  • Chill and serve: Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to meld. Serve chilled. Can be stored in refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Notes

Pros

  • Perfect make-ahead dish that tastes better after flavors meld
  • Easily customizable with additional vegetables or proteins
  • Great for feeding large crowds at gatherings
  • Combines classic Italian flavors in one dish
  • Can be served as main course or side dish
  • Travels well for picnics and potlucks

Cons

  • Pasta can absorb dressing and become dry if stored too long
  • Fresh mozzarella may release water and dilute flavors
  • Requires advance planning for best flavor development
  • May need dressing refresher before serving leftovers
Keyword BBQ side, Cold salad, Make-ahead, Mediterranean, Outdoor dining, picnic, Potluck, summer, Vegetarian option