Pasta salads are a great summer dish. They're easy to make, they're light and refreshing, and they can be as creative as you want them to be. What's more, they're a great way to use up leftover pasta and veggies. This Easy Italian Pasta Salad is one of our favorite pasta salad recipes, and it's sure to be a hit at your next summer gathering.
Ingredients
This easy Italian pasta salad is made with simple ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. You'll need:
- 1 pound of rotini pasta
- 1/2 cup of olive oil
- 1/4 cup of white wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1/2 cup of parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup of black olives, sliced
- 1/2 cup of pepperoni, diced
- 1/2 cup of red onion, diced
- 1/2 cup of fresh basil, chopped
Instructions
This easy Italian pasta salad is really easy to make. First, cook the rotini pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, white wine vinegar, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, parmesan cheese, cherry tomatoes, black olives, pepperoni, red onion, and fresh basil. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss to combine. Serve immediately or store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Variations
This easy Italian pasta salad is incredibly versatile. Here are some ideas for variations:
- Add some cooked, shredded chicken or rotisserie chicken for a heartier dish.
- Swap the parmesan cheese for mozzarella cheese.
- Add some roasted red peppers, artichoke hearts, or roasted eggplant.
- Swap the pepperoni for cooked and crumbled sausage or bacon.
- Swap the basil for fresh parsley, cilantro, or oregano.
- Swap the rotini for penne, farfalle, or any other kind of pasta.
Serving Suggestions
This easy Italian pasta salad is perfect for summer gatherings, potlucks, and barbecues. Serve it alongside grilled chicken, burgers, or steak. It can also be a side dish for fish or seafood. You can also serve it as a main dish for a light lunch or dinner.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does Italian pasta salad last?
Italian pasta salad will last up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Can Italian pasta salad be frozen?
No, it's not recommended to freeze Italian pasta salad as it can become mushy when thawed.
What can I add to Italian pasta salad?
You can add cooked chicken or sausage, roasted red peppers, artichoke hearts, roasted eggplant, mozzarella cheese, fresh herbs, and more.
Can I make Italian pasta salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can make Italian pasta salad ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
What is the best kind of pasta to use for Italian pasta salad?
Any kind of pasta will work for Italian pasta salad. Some popular choices are rotini, penne, farfalle, and shells.
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