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5.0 from 24 votes

Classic Pasta Salad

The best Classic Pasta Salad made with Italian meats, creamy cheeses, fresh vegetables, and all tossed in a creamy homemade Italian dressing. The perfect pasta salad recipe!

Prep Time
20 mins
Cook Time
20 mins
Servings: 8
Course: Side Dish , Salad
Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

  • 1 lb. Pasta *
  • 4 ounces Salami ** (cut into chunks)
  • 4 ounces pepperoni
  • 16 ounces cubed cheese (cheddar, white cheddar, pepper jack, or fresh mozzarella)
  • 1 to 2 Red, Yellow, or Orange Peppers (diced)
  • 1 pint cherry tomatoes (sliced)
  • 1/4 red onion (finely diced)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Pasta Salad Dressing:
  • 1 cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 Tablespoons mayonnaise
  • 1/3 cup red wine vinegar
  • 2 garlic cloves (or 1/4 teaspoon Garlic Powder)
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon pepper

Instructions

    Cup of Yum
  1. Heat a large pot of water over high heat and bring to a boil. Generously salt the water. This will infuse the pasta with the salt and give it more flavor. Once the water is boiling, cook the pasta according to package instructions.
  2. Meanwhile, prepare the meats, cheese, and cut up the vegetables.
  3. Make the dressing in a food processor or blender by mixing the oil, mayonnaise, vinegar, garlic, dried oregano, red chili flakes, salt, and pepper together until smooth.
  4. In a large bowl, toss the pasta with the vegetables. Add the dressing and fold in the meats and cheeses.
  5. Cover and place in the refrigerator to chill for at least 30 minutes.

Notes

  • Pasta Ideas:
  • ** I pick up the salami and pepperoni from the deli department. I order it in thicker slices so I can cut it into chunks.
  • Rotini
  • Campanelle
  • Gemelli
  • Tortellini
  • Farfalle (Bowtie)
  • Fusilli
  • Cavatappi
  • Rotelle
  • Penne
  • Orecchiette
  • Penne or Ziti or Rigatoni Pasta