This quick and flavorful Italian pasta salad is perfect for potlucks, BBQs, or any occasion where you need a light, refreshing dish. With zesty Italian dressing, pepperoni, black olives, and a sprinkle of cheese, it’s a crowd-pleaser that comes together in no time.
Ingredients:
- 2 boxes garden rotini noodles (about 16 oz total)
- Zesty Italian dressing (about 1 cup, or more to taste)
- Black olives (sliced, about 1 can)
- Cheese (shredded mozzarella, cheddar, or a mix – about 1 to 2 cups)
- Pepperoni (sliced or mini pepperoni, about 1 cup)
- Optional Add-ins:
- Broccoli florets (lightly steamed or raw)
- Cherry tomatoes (halved, about 1 cup)
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta:
Boil the garden rotini noodles according to the package instructions. Once done, drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool them down. This helps keep the pasta firm and prevents it from getting mushy in the salad. - Prepare the Ingredients:
While the pasta cools, slice the black olives, pepperoni, and chop any veggies like broccoli and cherry tomatoes if you’re using them. Grate or shred your choice of cheese (mozzarella and cheddar are both great options). - Mix the Salad:
In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta with the zesty Italian dressing, sliced olives, cheese, and pepperoni. If you’re adding broccoli and tomatoes, toss those in as well. - Chill:
Cover the bowl and refrigerate the pasta salad for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld together. The dressing will soak into the noodles and the ingredients will become even more flavorful. - Adjust Seasoning:
Before serving, give the pasta salad a good stir and taste it. If you like it a bit more tangy, add more Italian dressing to taste. Stir well and serve chilled.
Benefits of This Recipe:
- Quick & Easy: This pasta salad is super simple and doesn’t require any cooking skills beyond boiling pasta. You can have it ready in under 30 minutes (with chill time).
- Customizable: Add in your favorite veggies, meats, or cheeses to make it your own. It’s a flexible recipe that works with what you have in your fridge.
- Make-Ahead: Since it’s a cold salad, it can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge, making it ideal for parties, picnics, and meal prepping.
- Kid-Friendly: The combo of pasta, pepperoni, and cheese is always a hit with kids, making it a great option for family gatherings or lunchboxes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Q: Can I use any other kind of pasta?
A: Absolutely! While garden rotini is great for holding onto dressing, you can use any pasta shape you like, such as bowtie, penne, or elbow macaroni. Just make sure the pasta has enough texture to catch the ingredients.
Q: Can I use a different type of dressing?
A: Yes! You can swap the zesty Italian dressing for a ranch or balsamic vinaigrette if you prefer a different flavor. You could even make your own dressing if you’re feeling adventurous—olive oil, vinegar, garlic, and herbs work well together for a homemade Italian dressing.
Q: Can I make this salad vegetarian?
A: Definitely! Simply leave out the pepperoni and add more veggies like cucumbers, red onion, or even artichoke hearts. You can also substitute the cheese with a dairy-free version if needed.
Q: How long can I store the leftovers?
A: The pasta salad will last in the fridge for about 3-4 days. Just be sure to stir it up before serving, and add a little more dressing if it seems dry after sitting in the fridge.
Q: Can I add grilled chicken or another protein?
A: Yes! You can definitely add grilled chicken, salami, or even bacon to make the pasta salad more filling. Just make sure to chop the protein into bite-sized pieces before adding it.
Final Thoughts:
This Italian Pasta Salad is a breeze to whip up and an absolute crowd favorite! It’s light, fresh, and packed with flavor, making it the perfect side dish for any gathering. Plus, you can personalize it to suit your tastes—add more veggies, cheese, or protein depending on what you’re in the mood for. Enjoy your easy, tasty pasta creation! 🍝🧀🍅