Description
A zesty and family-friendly Italian pasta salad made with rotini, salami, crisp vegetables, mozzarella pearls, and a flavorful homemade dressing.
Ingredients
- 16 oz rotini pasta
- 10 oz salami, chopped into 1/4-inch pieces
- 1 cup English cucumber, quartered and sliced
- 2 cups grape tomatoes, halved
- 1 1/2 cups bell peppers, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, chopped
- 8 oz black olives, drained and sliced
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella pearls
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 1/2 tbsp Italian seasoning
- 2 tsp sugar
- 3 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 2 tsp garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions
1. Cook the rotini pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain in a colander and rinse with cold water to cool, then set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Italian seasoning, sugar, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with salami, cucumber, tomatoes, bell peppers, red onion, olives, mozzarella pearls, parmesan cheese, and parsley.
4. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is evenly coated. Serve cold and enjoy.
Notes
If you cannot find mozzarella pearls, substitute with fresh mozzarella cut into small cubes.
Mini pepperoni can be used instead of salami for a similar flavor.
Cut vegetables into uniform bite-sized pieces for the best texture.
If preparing ahead of time, add mozzarella, tomatoes, and herbs just before serving to prevent excess moisture.
Garnish with fresh basil before serving for extra color and flavor.