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Zesty Italian Pasta Salad

Zesty Italian Pasta Salad
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A zesty and family-friendly Italian pasta salad made with rotini, salami, crisp vegetables, mozzarella pearls, and a flavorful homemade dressing.

Ingredients

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  • 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 (two colors recommended)
  • 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 rotini pasta according to package directions until al dente.

2. Drain pasta in a colander and rinse with cold water to cool it down, then set aside.

3. 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.

4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, salami, cucumber, tomatoes, bell peppers, red onion, black olives, mozzarella pearls, parmesan cheese, and parsley.

5. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated.

6. Chill if desired, then 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 if needed.

Cut vegetables into uniform bite-sized pieces for the best texture and presentation.

If making ahead of time, add mozzarella, tomatoes, and fresh herbs just before serving to prevent excess moisture.

Sprinkle fresh basil on top before serving for extra freshness and color.

Find it online: https://cookingwithramsay.com/best-zesty-italian-pasta-salad/