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Easy Italian Pasta Salad

Delicious Easy Italian Pasta Salad for Summer Fun

Enjoy a vibrant Easy Italian Pasta Salad, perfect for summer gatherings with colorful veggies, salami, and mozzarella.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 1 lb Pasta, preferably Barilla rotini or fusilli These shapes hold the dressing beautifully.
  • 1.5 Green Bell Pepper, finely diced into 1/4-inch pieces Adds a satisfying crunch and a sweet note.
  • 1.5 Red Bell Pepper, finely diced into 1/4-inch pieces Enhances color and provides extra sweetness.
  • 1 Red Onion, diced Brings sharpness and flavor depth to the salad.
  • 0.5 cup Black Olives, sliced Contributes brininess but can be omitted.
  • 10 oz Salami, cut into 1/2-inch cubes Provides protein and a savory kick.
  • 1.25 cups Mozzarella, cubed Offers creaminess and helps bind the salad.
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes, halved Adds a burst of freshness and bright flavor.
  • 3/4 cup Parmesan Cheese, grated Intensifies the overall flavor.
  • 1 cup Italian Dressing, preferably Ken's Steak House Simply Vinaigrette Acts as the lively dressing.
  • Salt & Pepper To taste; essential for enhancing flavors.
Optional But Recommended
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Basil, chopped Adds a fragrant touch.
  • 1 tsp Italian Seasoning Elevates the Italian essence.

Equipment

  • large mixing bowl
  • Large Pot

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Prep Ingredients: Wash and chop the fresh veggies. Finely dice the green and red bell peppers, and chop the red onion. Halve the cherry tomatoes and cube the salami and mozzarella. Organize all ingredients in a large mixing bowl.
  2. Cook Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta carefully, preserving some starch.
  3. Combine Ingredients: While the pasta is still warm, add it gently to the bowl with the prepped veggies. Toss in the sliced black olives. Mix well, allowing the warmth of the pasta to slightly wilt the veggies.
  4. Dress Salad: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the mixture, then pour in the Italian dressing. Toss until well combined, ensuring each piece of pasta is coated in the zesty dressing.
  5. Season: Taste the salad and adjust for seasoning. Add salt and pepper to preference, stirring well to incorporate.
  6. Chill: Cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 12gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 25mgIron: 10mg

Notes

Feel free to customize ingredients and adjust seasoning as per your taste preferences. Ideal for make-ahead meals and summer gatherings.

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