When it comes to versatile dishes that please a crowd, few can compete with the robust flavors and delightful textures of an Italian Pasta Salad. This recipe, brimming with vibrant vegetables, savory salami, and creamy mozzarella, is a guaranteed hit at any event, from casual picnics to formal gatherings. The combination of ingredients creates a symphony of flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing and your guests fully satisfied.
Servings: 7 people
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 1 cup mini mozzarella balls, whole or halved
- 13 cherry tomatoes, preferably tricolor, halved
- ½ medium red onion, diced
- 1 cup cucumber, sliced and seeds removed
- ½ cup black olives (green or purple also work well)
- ½ cup chopped parsley
- 10 oz salami, diced (or other Italian sausage, or kielbasa)
- 15 oz pasta (fusilli, rotini, farfalle, or any pasta with curves to catch the dressing)
- ½ cup red bell pepper, diced
For the Dressing:
- ½ tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp lemon juice
- ¼ cup olive oil + 3 tablespoons
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp maple syrup
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
- Cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Add a pinch of salt to the boiling water to enhance the pasta’s flavor. Once cooked, drain the pasta using a colander. Spread the pasta on a baking sheet to cool quickly while you prepare the other ingredients. For a chilled salad, you can also place the pasta in the refrigerator.
- Prepare the Dressing:
- In a mixing jug or a mason jar with a lid, combine the dried thyme, oregano, lemon juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, salt, and black pepper. Stir or shake well until all ingredients are thoroughly mixed. Allow the dressing to sit at room temperature or in the refrigerator for 15-30 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
- Assemble the Salad:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, halved mozzarella balls, cherry tomatoes, diced red onion, cucumber slices, black olives, chopped parsley, diced salami, and diced red bell pepper. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to ensure all ingredients are well-coated with the flavorful dressing. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Chill and Serve:
- For the best flavor, cover the mixing bowl with plastic wrap and chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least one hour before serving. This step is optional but highly recommended as it allows the flavors to blend and intensify. Serve the salad cold, and enjoy the delightful combination of textures and tastes.
Conclusion :
Italian Pasta Salad is a dish that effortlessly combines convenience with gourmet appeal. Imagine a salad that not only saves you time in the kitchen but also brings a touch of sophistication to your meal. The vibrant colors of cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, and cucumbers mixed with the creamy whites of mozzarella and the rich, deep hues of salami and olives make this salad a feast for the eyes as well as the palate. Each bite delivers a symphony of flavors and textures, from the crispness of fresh vegetables to the tender chewiness of perfectly cooked pasta and the savory depth of seasoned salami.
Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, attending a potluck, or simply preparing a family meal, this salad is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Its universal appeal lies in its ability to cater to diverse tastes and dietary preferences. The recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize the ingredients to suit your preferences or what you have on hand. You can easily substitute or add different vegetables, cheeses, or proteins to tailor the salad to your liking. Want a vegetarian option? Skip the salami and add more veggies or some chickpeas for added protein. Looking to switch up the flavors? Try using a different type of cheese or incorporating some fresh herbs like basil or arugula.
This adaptability makes Italian Pasta Salad a staple recipe that you can turn to time and again, no matter the occasion. It’s a dish that can be prepped in advance, making it perfect for busy weekdays or when you’re entertaining guests. Plus, it’s a great way to make use of any leftover ingredients you might have in your fridge, reducing food waste and making meal prep even more economical. Enjoy this refreshing and satisfying salad that brings a taste of Italy to your table, offering both convenience and a gourmet dining experience.
Source of the picture : Kitchen Crafty Fun
