If you’re craving a dish that bursts with vibrant colors, fresh flavors, and that perfect tangy Italian touch, then this Classic Italian Pasta Salad Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s an easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing salad that combines al dente tri-colored rotini, savory salami, juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and a zesty Italian dressing that ties everything together beautifully. Whether you’re hosting a picnic, potluck, or just want a refreshing side, this recipe is a timeless favorite that you’ll turn to again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple, straightforward, and each plays a crucial role in creating the magic of this salad. From the chewy pasta to the savory meats and fresh vegetables, every component adds texture and irresistible flavor.
- 12 ounces tri-colored rotini pasta: The perfect shape to hold dressing and mix-ins for every bite.
- ½ cup hard Italian salami (chopped or thinly sliced): Adds a smoky and savory depth to the salad.
- 1 pint Glory tomatoes (cherry-type, quartered): Bring sweetness and juiciness, brightening every forkful.
- ¼ cup minced red onions: Adds a mild pungency and crunch to balance the other flavors.
- 1 cup mini mozzarella balls (8 ounces pearls, halved): A creamy, milky contrast that smooths out the savory notes.
- ½ cup diced Peperoncini: Brings a tangy, mildly spicy punch for excitement.
- ¼ cup pitted and sliced black or green olives: Adds a briny richness.
- ¼ cup chopped fresh basil leaves: Infuses herby freshness that truly elevates the dish.
- 1 cup Italian dressing (vinaigrette): The flavorful binder that melds everything beautifully together.
How to Make Classic Italian Pasta Salad Recipe
Step 1: Cook and Dry the Pasta
Begin by cooking the tri-colored rotini pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain it and rinse under cold water to halt the cooking process and cool the noodles. This ensures the pasta has that perfect chewy texture without being mushy. Spread the pasta out over paper towels on a large rimmed baking sheet and let it dry for 10 to 15 minutes. This step helps the pasta absorb the dressing better later on.
Step 2: Combine All Salad Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, toss together your cooked pasta, salami, quartered tomatoes, minced red onions, halved mozzarella balls, diced peperoncini, sliced olives, and fresh chopped basil. Mixing these elements early allows their flavors to mingle, creating a complex and delightful combination of textures and tastes.
Step 3: Add Dressing and Toss
Pour about three-quarters of your Italian dressing over the mixed ingredients, then toss everything so every pasta piece and mix-in is generously coated. This first coating of dressing starts the marinade process, letting the flavors meld beautifully as it chills.
Step 4: Refrigerate and Finish Dressing
Cover the salad and place it in the refrigerator to chill until you’re ready to serve. Just before serving, stir in the remaining quarter cup of dressing. This fresh pour adds brightness and lifts the flavors for a perfectly balanced taste.
Step 5: Enjoy Your Classic Italian Pasta Salad
Give the salad one final toss, serve it up, and enjoy the wonderful medley of flavors and textures. It’s truly a celebration of simple, quality ingredients that come together to create something special.
How to Serve Classic Italian Pasta Salad Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing your salad adds that extra touch of freshness and visual appeal. Consider sprinkling some freshly grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese on top or adding a few whole basil leaves for vibrant color. A crack of freshly ground black pepper can also enhance the aroma and taste before serving.
Side Dishes
This Classic Italian Pasta Salad Recipe pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, fresh garlic bread, or a light antipasto platter. It’s equally delightful served on its own as a refreshing lunch or light dinner, especially on warmer days when you want something cool but satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try layering the salad in a glass trifle bowl showing off the vibrant colors. Alternatively, serve it in individual mason jars for picnics or parties—it’s portable and visually inviting. You can even use bell pepper halves as edible bowls for a stunning presentation that doubles as a crunchy side.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Classic Italian Pasta Salad keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keeping it chilled helps maintain the texture of the pasta and the freshness of the veggies. Just give it a quick toss before serving again to redistribute the dressing.
Freezing
Because this salad contains fresh mozzarella and crisp vegetables, freezing is not recommended as it can alter the texture and flavor. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days of making it.
Reheating
This salad is meant to be served cold or at room temperature, so reheating is unnecessary and can compromise the freshness. If you prefer a warmer dish, consider enjoying the salad as a cold side with a hot entrée instead.
FAQs
Can I use a different pasta shape for this recipe?
Absolutely! While tri-colored rotini is ideal for trapping dressing and mix-ins, other shapes like penne, fusilli, or farfalle work wonderfully as well. Just stick to a pasta that holds dressing well for the best texture.
Is Italian dressing the only dressing option?
Italian dressing complements this salad beautifully, but you can experiment with homemade vinaigrettes or even a balsamic glaze for a different flavor profile. Just be sure the dressing balances acidity and herbs to match the salad’s fresh ingredients.
Can this salad be made vegan?
Yes! Replace mozzarella pearls with vegan cheese alternatives, omit the salami, and use a vegan Italian dressing or vinaigrette. You can also add more veggies like artichokes or chickpeas for extra protein and texture.
How far in advance can I prepare this salad?
It’s best made a few hours ahead or the day before serving. This allows flavors to meld and keeps everything fresh. Just wait to add any delicate herbs or dressing until just before serving for maximum vibrancy.
What if I can’t find peperoncini?
No worries! Pickled pepperoncini add a unique tang, but you can substitute with mild banana peppers or pickled jalapeños if you prefer a little more heat. They’ll still keep the salad lively and flavorful.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a Classic Italian Pasta Salad Recipe that makes it a go-to for so many occasions. It’s a wonderful mix of fresh, savory, and tangy flavors that’s as fun to eat as it is to make. I hope this recipe becomes a staple in your kitchen and brings lots of smiles around your table every time you serve it.
Print
Classic Italian Pasta Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Classic Italian Pasta Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish perfect for gatherings or a light meal. Featuring tri-colored rotini pasta tossed with savory salami, fresh cherry tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, peperoncini, olives, and fragrant basil, coated in a tangy Italian vinaigrette dressing. Easy to prepare and served chilled, it’s both refreshing and satisfying.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 ounces tri-colored rotini pasta (1 box)
Meat
- ½ cup hard Italian salami, chopped or thinly sliced
Vegetables & Herbs
- 1 pint Glory tomatoes (cherry-type tomatoes), quartered
- ¼ cup minced red onions
- ½ cup diced peperoncini
- ¼ cup pitted and sliced black or green olives
- ¼ cup chopped fresh basil leaves
Dairy
- 1 cup mini mozzarella balls (8 ounces pearls), halved
Dressing
- 1 cup Italian dressing (vinaigrette)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Cook the tri-colored rotini pasta to al dente according to the package directions. Drain and rinse the pasta with cold water to stop the cooking process. Shake off excess liquid and spread the pasta on a large rimmed baking sheet lined with paper towels. Let it dry for 10-15 minutes.
- Combine ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the dried pasta, chopped salami, quartered Glory tomatoes, minced red onions, halved mozzarella balls, diced peperoncini, sliced olives, and chopped fresh basil. Stir gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Add dressing: Pour ¾ cup of the Italian vinaigrette dressing over the pasta salad mixture. Toss thoroughly to ensure every ingredient is well coated with the dressing.
- Chill: Transfer the pasta salad to an airtight container and refrigerate until ready to serve. Before serving, add the remaining ¼ cup of dressing and toss again to incorporate the flavors evenly.
- Serve and enjoy: Serve chilled and enjoy this delicious and colorful Italian pasta salad as a side dish or a light meal.
Notes
- For a lighter option, substitute the Italian vinaigrette with a low-fat or homemade dressing.
- You can customize this salad by adding or substituting other vegetables or cured meats according to preference.
- Allow the salad to chill for at least 1 hour before serving for best flavor.
- Ensure pasta is thoroughly dried after cooking to prevent the salad from becoming watery.
