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Zesty Italian Pasta Salad

Zesty Italian Pasta Salad: A Flavorful Make-Ahead Delight

Zesty Italian Pasta Salad is a vibrant mix of flavors, perfect for meal prep and impressing guests at gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 300

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 8 oz rotini or fusilli pasta or another pasta shape
  • 1 cup mozzarella pearls
  • 6 oz Genoa salami or pepperoni
  • 1/2 cup pepperoncini or pickled jalapeños for heat
  • 1 cup fresh vegetables like bell peppers and cherry tomatoes
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley or basil
For the Dressing
  • 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
  • 1 tsp dried herbs like oregano and basil
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese or pecorino for vegetarian option
  • 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice always fresh for best flavor

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • medium bowl
  • large mixing bowl
  • whisk

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. Cook pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together red wine vinegar, dried herbs, lemon juice, and Parmesan until well combined.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled pasta, mozzarella pearls, salami, pepperoncini, and fresh vegetables.
  4. Pour half of the dressing over the mixture and toss gently to combine.
  5. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to chill.
  6. Before serving, toss in the remaining dressing and chopped parsley.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 10gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

This salad is highly customizable, making it perfect for any gathering or dietary need.

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