When it comes to summer gatherings or potluck contributions, a well-made pasta salad can steal the spotlight. Bursting with colors, flavors, and a medley of textures, this Pasta Salad recipe is a surefire winner that’s bound to become your go-to dish for any occasion.
Pasta Salad Ingredients:
- 1 pound uncooked pasta (Rotini is my personal favorite!)
- 3 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese balls, cut in half
- 1 lb. salami or summer sausage, cubed
- 3/4 cup sliced Kalamata olives
- 3/4 cup pepperoncini (optional, but highly recommended!)
- 1/2 cup sliced red onion
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Italian Pasta Salad Dressing:
- 1 1/2 cups olive oil
- 1/4 cup white vinegar (either white or red wine vinegar works)
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 tablespoons coarse sea salt (yes, tablespoons – for that perfect balance!)
- 2 cloves garlic (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 teaspoons each dry oregano and dry basil
- Black pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs for an extra punch (basil, parsley, or chives work wonders)
Directions:
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. To enhance the flavor, boil it in salted water. Once cooked, allow it to cool slightly, and toss it with a bit of oil to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the dressing: Blend up the ingredients or simply shake them together in a jar. The flavors of the herbs and garlic infuse beautifully with the oil, vinegar, and seasoning.
- Combine all the ingredients in a large mixing bowl. It’s suggested to start by using around three-fourths of the dressing and saving the rest to dress any leftovers.
- Toss everything together until the dressing thoroughly coats the pasta and ingredients. The vibrant colors and enticing aroma will make your mouth water!
- Chill the salad in the fridge for 2-3 days. Surprisingly, the flavors seem to meld even better the day after preparation. It’s the perfect make-ahead dish for your gatherings.
This Pasta Salad isn’t just a simple amalgamation of ingredients; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures. The harmonious blend of tomatoes, mozzarella, savory salami, and tangy olives, complemented by the zesty Italian dressing, creates a symphony of taste that’s simply irresistible.
Whether you’re planning a picnic, a barbecue, or just a delightful meal at home, this Pasta Salad is your ticket to winning over taste buds and hearts alike. Prepare it, chill it, and let the flavors work their magic. It’s time to elevate your picnic game with this delectable creation!
