Ingredients

For the Pasta Salad

12 oz rotini pasta (or bowtie, penne, or fusilli)

5 oz salami, sliced into strips or halved rounds

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup cucumber, diced

1 cup red bell pepper, diced

1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced

1 cup black olives, sliced

1 cup mini mozzarella balls (or cubed mozzarella)

1/2 cup pepperoncini, sliced

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

For the Italian Dressing

1/2 cup olive oil

1/4 cup red wine vinegar

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 teaspoon sugar or honey (optional, to balance acidity)

1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

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Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking and cool it down.

Make the Dressing

In a jar or bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, sugar (if using), and red pepper flakes until well combined.

Prep the Mix-Ins

While the pasta cools, chop the salami, tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, onion, olives, mozzarella, pepperoncini, and parsley.

Assemble the Salad

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, salami, vegetables, olives, mozzarella, pepperoncini, Parmesan, and parsley.

Toss with Dressing

Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is evenly coated.

Chill and Serve

Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to 2 hours for even better flavor. Toss again before serving and garnish with extra Parmesan or parsley if desired.

Notes

Cooking Tips

Salt your pasta water well for the best flavor.
Cook pasta just to al dente so it doesn’t get mushy after chilling.
Rinse pasta with cold water to cool it quickly and prevent sticking.
Dress it while slightly cool so the pasta absorbs more flavor.
If the salad seems dry after chilling, add a small splash of olive oil or extra dressing before serving.
Use thick-cut deli salami for a heartier bite and better texture.
For best flavor, let the salad chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Add delicate ingredients like fresh herbs just before serving for the freshest taste.

Variations

1. Add More Meat

Include pepperoni, prosciutto, ham, or grilled chicken for extra protein and flavor.

2. Make It Spicy

Use hot salami, spicy pepperoncini, or extra red pepper flakes.

3. Use Cheese Cubes

Swap mini mozzarella balls for cubed provolone, cheddar, or fontina.

4. Add More Veggies

Try artichoke hearts, broccoli florets, spinach, roasted red peppers, or sun-dried tomatoes.

5. Use Store-Bought Dressing

Short on time? Use your favorite zesty Italian dressing instead of homemade.

6. Make It Gluten-Free

Use your favorite gluten-free pasta.

7. Make It Low-Carb Inspired

Use chickpea pasta or a reduced-carb pasta option for a more protein-packed twist.

8. Turn It Into a Meal

Add grilled chicken, chickpeas, or white beans to make it more filling.

9. Swap the Pasta Shape

Rotini works great, but bowtie, penne, shells, or cavatappi all hold dressing well.

10. Fresh Herb Upgrade

Add fresh basil or oregano for even more Italian-inspired flavor.

Storage Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Stir before serving since the dressing may settle.
If needed, refresh leftovers with a little olive oil or extra dressing.
Not ideal for freezing, as the pasta and vegetables can lose texture.

Author: Emma
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 390
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 780mg
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Carbohydrates: 29g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 14g
Cholesterol: 28mg