This Italian pasta salad is a vibrant, hearty, and zesty dish that comes together in under 30 minutes—perfect for picnics, potlucks, or easy weeknight meals. Featuring rotini pasta, savory salami, fresh veggies, mozzarella, and tangy Italian dressing, it’s a no-fuss, make-ahead recipe that’s as satisfying as it is colorful. Serve it chilled and enjoy a refreshing bite packed with classic Italian flavors.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This pasta salad is everything you want in a crowd-pleaser: bold flavors, satisfying textures, and versatility. It’s easy to prep ahead, travels well, and can be customized with your favorite ingredients. The Italian dressing brings brightness and balance, while the salami and cheeses add a rich, savory depth. Ideal for gatherings or weekly meal prep, it’s a dish that’s as practical as it is delicious.
ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Rotini pasta, cooked and cooled
- Diced salami
- Cherry tomatoes, halved
- Red bell pepper, diced
- Green bell pepper, diced
- Red onion, finely chopped
- Black olives, sliced
- Mozzarella cubes
- Shaved or shredded Parmesan cheese
- Italian dressing
- Salt and pepper, to taste
directions
- Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Allow to cool completely.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with diced salami, cherry tomatoes, red and green bell peppers, chopped red onion, black olives, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese.
- Pour the Italian dressing over the salad and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
- Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Servings and timing
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Chill Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: Approximately 380 kcal per serving
Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Omit salami and add chickpeas or marinated artichokes for protein.
- Pasta Swap: Use penne, farfalle, or fusilli instead of rotini.
- Add Fresh Herbs: Toss in chopped fresh basil, parsley, or oregano for a burst of freshness.
- Extra Veggies: Add cucumbers, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted red peppers for added crunch and flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Use hot salami or add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing.
- Creamy Dressing: Replace or combine Italian dressing with a spoonful of pesto or a dollop of Greek yogurt for creaminess.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free pasta variety to suit dietary needs.
- Balsamic Boost: Add a splash of balsamic vinegar or glaze for a tangy twist.
storage/reheating
Store the pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Stir before serving, and add a bit more dressing if the pasta has absorbed too much moisture. This salad is best served cold and does not require reheating.
FAQs
What ingredients go in an Italian pasta salad?
Traditional Italian pasta salad includes pasta (like rotini), salami, mozzarella, tomatoes, bell peppers, onions, olives, Parmesan cheese, and Italian dressing.
Can I make pasta salad ahead of time?
Yes, it’s even better after chilling for a few hours. Make it up to a day in advance for best flavor.
Can I use bottled Italian dressing?
Yes, store-bought Italian dressing works well. Choose one with bold flavor or make your own for more control.
What kind of pasta works best?
Rotini holds onto dressing well, but penne, fusilli, or farfalle are also great choices.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
It can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta.
How do I keep the pasta from getting mushy?
Cook it al dente and rinse with cold water immediately after draining to stop the cooking.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Absolutely. Simply leave out the salami and add plant-based protein or more vegetables.
How long does pasta salad last in the fridge?
It will keep well for up to 4 days if stored in an airtight container.
Should I serve it cold or room temperature?
It’s best served chilled, but can be left out at room temperature for about 1–2 hours during serving.
Can I double the recipe for a large crowd?
Yes, this recipe scales up easily. Double or triple it for larger gatherings.
Conclusion
Italian Pasta Salad is a quick, colorful, and delicious side or light main dish that brings together the best of Italian flavors in a single bowl. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or hosting a backyard gathering, this easy, refreshing salad is always a hit. With endless customization options and minimal prep, it’s a go-to recipe for any occasion.
Print
Italian Pasta Salad
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
This Easy Italian Pasta Salad is loaded with rotini pasta, salami, mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, peppers, and a zesty Italian dressing. It’s a quick and refreshing dish perfect for summer picnics, potlucks, or make-ahead meals.
Ingredients
-
12 oz rotini pasta, cooked and cooled
-
1 cup diced salami
-
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
-
1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
-
1/2 cup green bell pepper, diced
-
1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
-
1/2 cup black olives, sliced
-
1/2 cup mozzarella cubes
-
1/2 cup shaved or shredded Parmesan cheese
-
3/4 cup Italian dressing
-
Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
-
Cook rotini pasta according to package directions. Drain and rinse under cold water. Let cool completely.
-
In a large bowl, mix together pasta, salami, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, red onion, olives, mozzarella, and Parmesan.
-
Pour in the Italian dressing and toss until everything is well coated.
-
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
-
Chill for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors blend before serving.
Notes
-
Use tri-color rotini for extra visual appeal.
-
Substitute salami with pepperoni or chickpeas for a vegetarian version.
-
Make ahead and store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
-
Add a handful of fresh basil or parsley for added freshness.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Salad / Side Dish
- Method: ossed / Chilled
- Cuisine: Italian-American
