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Bowl of zesty Italian pasta salad with cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, and olives, garnished with parsley and Parmesan.
Alyssa

Zesty Italian Pasta Salad

This is the BEST pasta salad with a vibrant Italian dressing and fresh ingredients like pepperoncini, salami, and mozzarella.
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Prep Time 35 minutes
Cook Time 7 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 42 minutes
Servings: 12 people
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • Homemade Italian Dressing
  • 1 lb Rotini Pasta
  • 3.5-4 oz Pepperoni, quartered
  • 4 oz Sliced Salami, quartered
  • 1 pint Cherry Tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup Black Olives, halved
  • 1 Orange Bell Pepper, chopped
  • 1 Green Bell Pepper, chopped
  • ½ cup Red Onion, finely diced
  • 2 tbsp Chopped Pepperoncini
  • 8 oz Fresh Mozzarella Pearls
  • Parmesan and Parsley for garnish

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Italian Dressing according to the directions. Refrigerate until ready to use, then shake to recombine before using.
  2. Cook the pasta in salted water according to the package directions. Drain and add to a large serving bowl.
  3. Pour HALF of the Dressing over the warm pasta and toss to combine. Add the rest of the pasta salad ingredients and toss to combine.
  4. For best results, chill for at least 30 minutes before serving (up to 24 hours). Chill the remaining Dressing separately.
  5. When ready to serve, toss with the remaining Dressing and garnish with fresh parsley and Parmesan.

Notes

Can be made ahead for stress-free entertaining and helps the flavors meld.