Italian Antipasto Pasta Salad Recipe

Introduction

Italian Antipasto Pasta Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish perfect for potlucks, picnics, or a light meal. Combining savory salami, fresh mozzarella, olives, and tangy Italian dressing with pasta, it offers a satisfying balance of textures and tastes.

Ingredients

• 2 cups pasta (penne or rotini works well)
• 1 cup sliced salami
• 1 cup mozzarella balls or diced mozzarella
• 1/2 cup olives, sliced
• 1/2 cup Italian dressing

Instructions

1. Step 1: Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sliced salami, mozzarella, and olives.
3. Step 3: Pour the Italian dressing over the mixture and toss gently until everything is well coated.
4. Step 4: Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Tips & Variations

• Try adding roasted red peppers or artichoke hearts for extra flavor and color.
• Use a homemade Italian dressing with fresh herbs for a brighter taste.
• Substitute salami with pepperoni or ham if preferred.
• For added crunch, toss in some chopped celery or bell peppers.

Storage

Store the pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Before serving, give it a quick stir and add a splash of dressing if it seems dry. It is best enjoyed chilled.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any short pasta like fusilli, farfalle, or rotini works well because they hold the dressing and mix-ins nicely.

Is it okay to prepare this salad in advance?

Absolutely. The flavors develop better when chilled for a few hours, making it perfect to prepare the day before serving.

Italian Antipasto Pasta Salad Recipe

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4.6 from 71 reviews

A vibrant and flavorful Italian Antipasto Pasta Salad featuring tender pasta, savory salami, creamy mozzarella, briny olives, and a zesty Italian dressing. Perfect for gatherings or a refreshing lunch.

• Author: Ria
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Salad
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Pasta

• 8 ounces pasta (penne or rotini)

Meats and Cheeses

• 6 ounces salami, diced
• 6 ounces fresh mozzarella, cubed

Vegetables and Extras

• 1 cup black olives, sliced

Dressing

• 1/2 cup Italian dressing

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to cool and stop the cooking process.
2. Combine the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, diced salami, cubed mozzarella, and sliced olives. Pour the Italian dressing over the mixture.
3. Mix and chill: Toss all ingredients together until evenly coated with the dressing. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld before serving.

Notes

• Use penne or rotini pasta as they hold dressing well.
• For a lighter option, substitute salami with turkey or omit for a vegetarian version.
• Reserve some dressing for serving if desired.
• Add chopped bell peppers or cherry tomatoes for extra color and flavor.

Keywords: Italian, Antipasto, Pasta Salad, Salami, Mozzarella, Olives, Italian Dressing, Cold Salad