Name: The Best Pasta Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 pound uncooked rotini pasta; 10 oz cherry tomatoes, halved; 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls; 8 oz salami, cubed or sliced; 1/2 cup kalamata olives, sliced; 1 cup sliced pepperoncini; 1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion; Fresh parsley for garnish; 1/2 cup olive oil; 1/4 cup white vinegar; 1/4 cup water; 2 teaspoons kosher salt; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon sugar; 2 teaspoons dried oregano; 2 teaspoons dried basil; Black pepper to taste

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The Best Pasta Salad is a delightful dish perfect for gatherings, picnics, or just a family dinner. With its vibrant colors and fresh flavors, this pasta salad stands out as a crowd-pleaser. The combination of pasta, juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and zesty salami creates an irresistible mix that’s both satisfying and refreshing. Whether you’re serving it at a potluck or making it for meal prep, this recipe is versatile enough for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy days.
Flavor Explosion: The blend of garlic, herbs, and spices brings a burst of flavor that elevates any meal.
Versatile Dish: Serve it as a side or main dish; it pairs well with various proteins and vegetables.
Meal Prep Friendly: Make it ahead of time! It tastes even better after the flavors meld overnight.
Crowd-Pleasing: With its colorful ingredients, it’s sure to impress guests at parties or family gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this delicious pasta salad, you will need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment can make your cooking experience smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large pot
Small blender or food processor
Large mixing bowl
Measuring cups and spoons
Cutting board and knife

Importance of Each Tool

Large pot: Necessary for boiling the pasta efficiently while ensuring even cooking.
Small blender or food processor: Ideal for quickly blending the dressing ingredients into a smooth mixture.

Ingredients

Super easy pasta salad – with pasta, tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, spicy salami, pepperoncini, olives, and easy Italian dressing. DANGEROUSLY GOOD.

For the Dressing

1/2 cup olive oil
1/4 cup white vinegar (red apple vinegar works too)
1/4 cup water
2 teaspoons kosher salt (see notes)
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 if you want! sometimes I add fresh parsley, basil, or chives.

For the Salad

1 pound uncooked pasta (preferably rotini)
one 10-oz. package cherry tomatoes, halved (2 cups)
8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese balls, cut in half if needed
8 ounces salami, cut into cubes or thin strips (see notes for types)
1/2 cup pitted kalamata olives, sliced
1 cup sliced pepperoncini
1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion
1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped

How to Make The Best Pasta Salad

Step 1: Make the Dressing

Blend up the dressing ingredients in a small blender or food processor until well combined. If you plan to make the salad ahead of time, consider doubling the dressing for extra flavor.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Bring 4 quarts of water plus 1 tablespoon of kosher salt to a boil in a large pot. Salting the water enhances the flavor of the pasta itself. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop cooking. Toss with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

In a very large bowl, add the cooked pasta along with all remaining ingredients (cherry tomatoes, mozzarella cheese balls, salami, olives, pepperoncini, red onion). Pour over the dressing and toss everything gently until well combined. Finish by adding more chopped parsley on top to give it an appealing look!

This delicious recipe makes more than 15 cups of The Best Pasta Salad—perfect for sharing! Enjoy every bite!

How to Serve The Best Pasta Salad

Serving The Best Pasta Salad is all about enhancing its flavors and making it visually appealing. This dish is versatile and can be enjoyed on its own or paired with various accompaniments.

As a Standalone Dish

Perfect for picnics: Its robust flavors make it an ideal choice for outdoor gatherings.
Great as a light lunch: Serve it chilled for a refreshing midday meal.

With Grilled Proteins

Chicken skewers: The juicy, smoky flavor of grilled chicken complements the pasta salad beautifully.
Shrimp: Grilled or sautéed shrimp add a touch of elegance and protein.

Accompanied by Breads

Garlic bread: A crispy, buttery garlic bread pairs well with the salad’s freshness.
Focaccia: Soft, herbed focaccia enhances the Italian flavors in the pasta salad.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley brightens up the dish visually and adds flavor.
Basil: Fresh basil leaves can elevate the taste profile and add color.

How to Perfect The Best Pasta Salad

To ensure your Best Pasta Salad turns out delicious every time, consider these helpful tips.

Use quality ingredients: Fresh vegetables and high-quality olive oil make a noticeable difference in flavor.
Balance flavors: Adjust the dressing to suit your taste by adding more vinegar or sugar if needed.
Chill before serving: Allowing the pasta salad to chill for at least an hour helps meld the flavors together.
Cook pasta al dente: This keeps the pasta from becoming mushy when mixed with dressing.
Add variety: Experiment with different vegetables or cheeses to customize your salad.

Best Side Dishes for The Best Pasta Salad

Pairing side dishes with The Best Pasta Salad can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider:

Grilled Vegetables: Seasoned and charred veggies add a smoky flavor that complements the salad.
Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil on skewers provide a refreshing bite.
Stuffed Peppers: Flavorful stuffed peppers bring heartiness to your meal while being colorful on the plate.
Antipasto Platter: A mix of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and pickles makes for an easy yet sophisticated side.
Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn is a classic summer side that pairs well with pasta dishes.
Potato Wedges: Crispy wedges seasoned with herbs are an excellent crunchy contrast to the soft pasta salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making The Best Pasta Salad, it’s easy to overlook a few key details. Avoid these common mistakes to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

Skipping the salt in pasta water: Not salting the cooking water can lead to bland pasta. Always add a tablespoon of kosher salt to enhance flavor.
Overcooking the pasta: Cooking pasta too long can make it mushy. Follow package instructions closely for al dente perfection.
Forgetting to rinse the pasta: Skipping this step can cause your pasta salad to clump together. Rinse with cold water after draining to cool it down and prevent sticking.
Insufficient dressing: Using too little dressing can leave your salad dry. Make enough dressing and toss it thoroughly for even flavor.
Neglecting fresh herbs: Fresh herbs enhance flavor and presentation. Don’t skip them; they elevate your salad!
Using low-quality ingredients: The quality of ingredients matters! Choose fresh, high-quality items for the best taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Keep the dressing separate if possible, adding it just before serving for freshness.

Freezing The Best Pasta Salad

Freezing is not recommended as the texture of vegetables and cheese may change when thawed.
If necessary, freeze without dressing for better results, but consume within a month.

Reheating The Best Pasta Salad

Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place pasta salad in a covered dish for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until warm. Be careful not to overheat.
Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, stirring frequently. Add a splash of olive oil if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes The Best Pasta Salad special?

The combination of fresh ingredients like mozzarella, tomatoes, and salami creates a delightful flavor explosion that’s perfect for any occasion.

Can I customize The Best Pasta Salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite veggies or proteins like grilled chicken or chickpeas for extra nutrition.

How do I make The Best Pasta Salad ahead of time?

Prepare the salad and dressing separately, then combine them just before serving. This helps maintain freshness and texture.

What are some good add-ins for The Best Pasta Salad?

Consider adding artichokes, bell peppers, or capers for an extra burst of flavor!

Final Thoughts

The Best Pasta Salad is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with various ingredients to suit your taste preferences. Whether you’re bringing it to a potluck or enjoying it at home, this recipe is sure to impress!