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Italian Dressing Pasta Salad

Delicious Italian Dressing Pasta Salad Perfect for Summer Fun

Enjoy a vibrant Italian Dressing Pasta Salad, perfect for summer gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Lunch
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 12 oz Rotini Twist pasta that captures dressing and flavors well.
  • 4 oz Genoa Salami Provides rich, meaty flavor.
  • 4 oz Pepperoni Adds a savory and slightly smoky taste.
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes Use ripe tomatoes for the best results.
  • 1 cup Bell Peppers Mix green, yellow, and orange for color.
  • 1/2 cup Red Onion Consider chives or green onions for a milder flavor.
  • 1/2 cup Black Olives Use whole olives cut in half.
  • 1/2 cup Pepperoncini Must-have for a tangy kick.
  • 8 oz Mozzarella Pearls Soft and buttery, ideal for salads.
  • 1/2 cup Fresh Parmesan For garnishing with a nutty finish.
For the Dressing
  • 1/2 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil Quality oil enhances flavor.
  • 1/4 cup Red Wine Vinegar Provides fruity tang.
  • 2 tbsp Lemon Juice Adds freshness without overpowering.
  • 1 tbsp Sugar Adjust to taste based on preference.
  • Seasonings Dried herbs like parsley, basil, and oregano.

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Colander
  • Mixing bowl
  • spatula

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. Cook the Rotini: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add rotini and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water. Transfer to a mixing bowl.
  2. Drizzle with Dressing: While rotini is warm, pour half of the dressing over it and toss to coat evenly.
  3. Add the Vegetables and Meats: Fold in chopped salami, pepperoni, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, red onion, black olives, and pepperoncini.
  4. Incorporate the Cheese: Gently fold in the mozzarella pearls without breaking them.
  5. Chill the Salad: Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours.
  6. Final Toss and Serve: Toss the salad with reserved dressing before serving and garnish with parsley and Parmesan cheese.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 12gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 250mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

Pasta will absorb dressing; cook just until al dente. Allow salad to chill for greater flavor infusion.

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