Best Italian Pasta Salad Recipe. This recipe is all about simple, tasty ingredients coming together to create something special.
This easy recipe is made with tri-color pasta mixed with crunchy bell peppers, juicy tomatoes, and zesty onions.
We’ve added some pepperoni for a bit of spice and olives for that tangy kick. If you like cheese, toss in some cubes to make it even more satisfying.
It’s the perfect side dish for any meal or a great main dish for a quick and easy light lunch.
Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, this pasta salad brings a burst of Italian flavor to any table.
Why You’ll Love This Best Italian Pasta Salad
Easy to Prepare
This pasta salad is a breeze to make with straightforward steps. You just mix the fresh ingredients, cook the pasta, and toss everything together. It’s a great option when you need a delicious dish without a lot of fuss.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether it’s a family gathering, a picnic, or a simple weeknight dinner, this pasta salad fits right in. Its colorful appearance and flavorful taste make it a hit at any table.
Customizable
You can easily tailor this salad to your taste. Prefer a bit more zest? Add extra pepperoni or a sprinkle of extra herbs. Not a fan of olives? Leave them out. This recipe welcomes your personal touch!
Nutritious and Satisfying
Packed with vegetables and optional cheese, this salad is not only filling but also provides a good mix of nutrients. It’s a wholesome choice that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Great for Leftovers
The flavors of this pasta salad improve with time, making it a perfect dish for leftovers. Enjoy it the next day, and it might even taste better!
Tips and Tricks for Best Italian Pasta Salad
Choosing the Right Pasta
Opt for high-quality tri-color pasta to ensure your salad looks as good as it tastes. The colors from spinach and tomato pasta not only add visual appeal but also a subtle flavor difference that enhances the overall dish.
Dressing It Right
For the best flavor, mix the dressing and let it sit for at least 30 minutes before tossing it with the pasta. This resting period allows the flavors to meld together, creating a more cohesive and robust taste in every bite.
Vegetable Prep
Cut the bell peppers, tomatoes, and onions into pieces that are roughly the same size as your pasta. This not only makes the salad easier to eat but also ensures you get a bit of everything in each forkful.
Adding the Cheese
If you’re using cheese, consider options like mozzarella or provolone cubes for a mild taste or a sharper cheese like Asiago for a bolder flavor. Add the cheese just before serving to keep it fresh and prevent it from getting soggy.
Serving and Storage
This pasta salad can be served immediately or stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If it feels a bit dry after storage, simply drizzle a little extra olive oil or vinegar over it before serving to refresh the flavors.
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Best Italian Pasta Salad
Ingredients
Dressing:
- ¾ cup extra virgin olive oil
- ¾ cup red wine vinegar
- ¼ cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon oregano
- salt to taste
- ground black pepper to taste
Salad:
- 1 box (1lb) tri-colored pasta
- 2 cups bell pepper chopped
- 2 cups tomatoes diced
- 1½ cups onion chopped
- ½ pound cubed cheese optional
- ½ pound pepperoni sliced
- ½ cup olives sliced
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine olive oil, red wine vinegar, sugar, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
- Stir the mixture continuously until the sugar is completely dissolved.
- Cook the pasta as directed on the box and rinse under cold water until it is cool.
- Slice each circle of pepperoni in half and separate the slices.
- In a large bowl, mix together the cooked pasta, chopped bell pepper, diced tomatoes, chopped onion, and sliced olives.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and stir thoroughly.
- Place the salad in the refrigerator to chill.
- Before serving, stir in the cubed cheese.
- If needed, add extra red wine vinegar or olive oil to achieve the desired consistency.
Nutrition
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