This Zesty Italian Pasta Salad is a vibrant, flavorful dish perfect for summer picnics, potlucks, or a light meal. It combines tri-colored pasta with fresh vegetables, savory meats, and a zesty Italian dressing that brings everything together. Easy to make and packed with flavor, this pasta salad is sure to be a hit!
Ingredients
- 1 box of tri-colored pasta
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 red onion, finely chopped
- 1 pint of cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 package of pepperoni, sliced
- 1 package of salami, sliced
- Zesty Italian dressing (to taste)
- Salt to taste
- 2 bags of cubed cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Boil the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the tri-colored pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and Rinse: Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool completely.
Step 2: Prepare the Ingredients
- Dice the Vegetables: While the pasta is cooling, dice the red bell pepper and finely chop the red onion. Halve the cherry tomatoes.
- Slice the Meats: Slice the pepperoni and salami into bite-sized pieces.
Step 3: Mix the Salad
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, diced red pepper, chopped red onion, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced pepperoni, sliced salami, and cubed cheese.
- Add Dressing: Pour the zesty Italian dressing over the salad ingredients. Start with about 1/2 cup and add more as needed to coat everything evenly.
- Season to Taste: Add salt to taste and mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed and coated with the dressing.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
- Chill: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together.
- Serve: Stir the salad before serving to redistribute the dressing. Serve chilled.
Cooking Notes
- Cheese Choices: Feel free to use a mix of cheeses such as cheddar, mozzarella, or even pepper jack for a bit of spice.
- Vegetable Variations: Add other vegetables like cucumbers, black olives, or green bell peppers for added flavor and crunch.
- Meat Substitutions: You can substitute the pepperoni and salami with other deli meats like ham or turkey if preferred.
- Homemade Dressing: For an extra burst of flavor, consider making your own Italian dressing with olive oil, vinegar, garlic, and Italian herbs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time? A: Yes, this pasta salad can be made a day in advance. In fact, it often tastes better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld together. Just be sure to stir it well before serving.
Q: How long does the pasta salad last in the refrigerator? A: The pasta salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. After that, the vegetables might start to lose their crispness.
Q: Can I use different types of pasta? A: Absolutely! While tri-colored pasta adds a nice visual appeal, you can use any pasta shape you like, such as penne, rotini, or bowties.
Q: What can I use instead of Zesty Italian dressing? A: If you prefer, you can use a different type of dressing, such as balsamic vinaigrette, ranch, or a homemade vinaigrette. Adjust the quantity to taste.
Q: Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians? A: To make this recipe vegetarian, simply omit the pepperoni and salami or replace them with plant-based meat alternatives.
Keto/Low Carb Version
To make a keto or low-carb version of this pasta salad, substitute the tri-colored pasta with low-carb pasta or zucchini noodles (zoodles). Ensure that the dressing is low in carbs, or make your own using olive oil, vinegar, and Italian herbs. Additionally, check that the meats and cheese are also low in carbohydrates.
This Zesty Italian Pasta Salad is a quick, easy, and delicious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Its colorful presentation and burst of flavors from the fresh vegetables, savory meats, and tangy dressing make it a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or need a quick meal for a busy weeknight, this pasta salad is a fantastic choice.
Did you try this Zesty Italian Pasta Salad recipe? Share your experience and any variations you made in the comments below! Don’t forget to tag us in your photos on social media. For more easy and tasty recipes, subscribe to our blog and stay updated with the latest posts. Happy cooking!
