Easy Italian Pasta Salad Recipe

Looking for a pasta salad that’s anything but boring? This Italian Pasta Salad is loaded with fresh veggies, gooey mozzarella, savory salami, and a homemade Italian dressing that’s seriously addictive.

It’s colorful, satisfying, and perfect for meal prep, parties, or just a tasty lunch at home.

The best part? You can make it ahead of time, customize it with your favorite ingredients, and enjoy that fresh, tangy dressing with every bite.

ITALIAN PASTA SALAD INGREDIENTS:

8 oz Rotini Pasta (can also use tri-color)
6 oz Salami, sliced into strips
10 oz Cherry tomatoes, halved (3 cups or 1 pint)
1/2 English Cucumber, diced
1/2 medium Red Onion, diced
8 oz Fresh Mozzarella Pearls (or mozzarella balls halved)
1/2 cup Black Olives, pitted and sliced
1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
1/2 cup Roasted Red Peppers, coarsely chopped
1/3 cup parsley, finely chopped
1 cup Italian Dressing

ITALIAN DRESSING INGREDIENTS:
½ cup extra virgin olive oil
3 Tbsp white wine vinegar
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, finely grated
1 Tbsp mayonnaise
1 tsp granulated sugar
1 garlic clove finely grated or pressed
1/2 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp dried parsley
1/2 tsp dried basil
3/4 sea salt or added to taste
1/2 tsp black pepper or to taste

Instructions

1. Make the Dressing

1. Combine olive oil, vinegar, Parmesan, mayo, sugar, and garlic in a mason jar.
2. Add oregano, parsley, basil, salt, and pepper.
3. Close the jar tightly and shake until well combined. Set aside. (Shake again before serving.)

2. Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil and season with a pinch of salt.
2. Add rotini pasta and cook until al dente, following package instructions.
3. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and remove excess starch. Set aside to cool.

3. Prep the Salad Ingredients

1. Slice salami into thin strips.
2. Halve cherry tomatoes.
3. Dice cucumber.
4. Finely dice red onion.
5. Prepare mozzarella (pearls, halved balls, or diced block).
6. Slice black olives; halve Kalamata olives.
7. Chop roasted red peppers and fresh parsley.

4. Assemble the Salad

1. In a large bowl, layer the cooled pasta as the base.
2. Add all the prepped vegetables, cheese, salami, and olives.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad to taste.
4. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated.

5. Serve & Store

• Serve immediately for fresh taste or cover and refrigerate for meal prep.
• For make-ahead meals, keep the dressing separate until ready to eat.

Tips & Variations:

• Swap mozzarella for feta or Parmesan for different flavor.
• Add bell peppers, artichokes, or your favorite veggies.
• Perfect for parties, lunches, or a hearty side dish.