Best Classic Italian Pasta Salad Recipe

As the temperature rises, this classic Italian pasta salad becomes an ideal choice for summer dining. Its vibrant colors and fresh ingredients make it a perfect addition to barbecues, potlucks, picnics, and outdoor parties. The chilled pasta and the cool, crisp vegetables offer a satisfying and light meal that won't weigh you down on hot days.

This versatile dish also pairs well with a variety of main courses, such as grilled chicken, seafood, or even as a standalone vegetarian option. Whether you're enjoying it by the poolside, at a backyard gathering, or as a quick weekday dinner, this classic Italian pasta salad is exactly what you need to enjoy in warmer weather months.

This pasta salad pairs so well with our Garlic Butter Chicken Bites or our Grilled Teriyaki Chicken.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• This recipe for the best classic Italian pasta salad is a flavor-packed dish that combines a blend of ingredients, from the savory salami to the creamy fresh mozzarella pearls, creating a tasty balance of textures and flavors.
• The tangy and herb-infused dressing takes this pasta salad to the next level, with its zesty combination of olive oil, lemon juice, and Italian seasoning, adding a burst of refreshing flavors that perfectly complement the vibrant ingredients.
• Whether you prefer to add roasted bell peppers, grilled chicken, or even swap the salami for a vegetarian option, you can make it your own and cater to your taste preferences.
• Perfect for summer, this pasta salad is a light and refreshing dish that will keep you cool and satisfied on those hot days.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Rotini Pasta - The rotini pasta serves as the base of the salad, providing a satisfying and chewy texture that holds the dressing and other ingredients well.
• Salami - Adds a deliciously savory and slightly smoky flavor to the pasta salad providing a meaty and rich element.
• Vegetables - English cucumber, grape tomatoes, bell peppers, and red onion provide an array of fresh textures and flavors along with a crunchy garden-fresh taste.
• Black Olives - Bring a briny and salty taste to the pasta salad.
• Mozzarella Pearls - Adds a delicate and smooth texture to the pasta salad, along with a subtle richness and mild saltiness.
• Shredded Parmesan Cheese - Adds a nutty and salty flavor to the salad.
• Fresh Parsley - Brings a fresh and aromatic element that complements the flavors of the other ingredients, adding a vibrant touch.

Dressing:

• Olive Oil - Serves as the base of the dressing, providing richness and a smooth mouthfeel. It also helps to coat the pasta and other ingredients evenly.
• Lemon Juice - Adds a tangy and citrusy element to the dressing.
• Italian Seasoning - Adds a robust and aromatic Italian flavor profile to the dressing.
• Sugar - A small amount of sugar is added to balance the flavors of the dressing, balancing out the acidity.
• Red Wine Vinegar - Contributes a tangy and slightly fruity flavor to the dressing adding acidity and depth.
• Minced Garlic - Lends a pungent and savory taste to the dressing.
• Dijon Mustard - Brings a hint of tanginess and spiciness to the dressing while helping to emulsify the dressing. This creates a smooth and creamy consistency.
• Salt & Pepper - Enhance the overall taste and ensure that all the flavors in the salad are properly seasoned.

How To Make Italian Summer Pasta Salad

Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the instructions on the box to al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the dressing: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, mix the olive oil, lemon juice, Italian seasoning, sugar, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until fully combined and emulsified.

Assemble the pasta salad: Add the chopped vegetables and remaining ingredients to a large bowl. Then, add the cooled pasta and dressing over the top. Toss until well coated. Serve cold, and enjoy!

Recipe Tips

• To ensure the pasta salad has the perfect texture. Cook the rotini pasta just until it is al dente, which means it's cooked but still slightly firm to the bite. This will prevent the pasta from becoming mushy when mixed with the other ingredients and dressing.
• Chop the vegetables and olives, all roughly the same size, to ensure an even texture throughout the pasta salad.
• After mixing the pasta, vegetables, and dressing, it's best to let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 1-2 hours before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and for the dressing to coat the ingredients fully.
• When dressing the pasta salad, start with a portion of the dressing and mix it well. If you prefer a more heavily dressed salad, add more dressing gradually until it reaches your desired level of moisture. It's a good idea to reserve a small amount of dressing to add just before serving, as the pasta may absorb some of the dressing during chilling.

Variations

• Mediterranean: Give your Italian pasta salad a Mediterranean twist by adding some marinated artichoke hearts, roasted red peppers, and Kalamata olives.
• Pesto Pasta: Swap the Italian seasoning in the dressing with a generous dollop of homemade or store-bought pesto. The vibrant flavors of basil, garlic, pine nuts, and Parmesan in the pesto will infuse the pasta salad with a delightful and aromatic twist.
• Caprese: Transform the pasta salad into a Caprese-inspired dish by replacing the salami with diced fresh tomatoes and adding some torn fresh basil leaves. Drizzle the salad with a balsamic glaze or reduction for a tangy-sweet finish.
• Protein Powerhouse: To make the pasta salad a heartier meal. Try to incorporate some grilled or roasted chicken breast, cooked shrimp, or additional cubed salami.
• Vegetarian: If you prefer a vegetarian version, omit the salami and add an array of roasted or grilled vegetables. Consider using zucchini, eggplant, red onion, and colorful bell peppers. Toss the vegetables with olive oil, garlic, and Italian herbs, then roast or grill until tender and mix into the salad.

Storing & Freezing

To store the Italian pasta salad, transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Before serving, give it a gentle toss to redistribute the dressing or add more as needed.

Freezing can alter the texture of the ingredients and result in a less desirable taste and appearance. Therefore, freezing is not recommended.

FAQ

More Easy Pasta Recipes

• Authentic Hawaiian Macaroni Salad
• Pesto Orzo Pasta Salad
• Spaghetti Carbonara
• Balsamic Pasta Salad

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