Italian Pasta Salad
User Reviews
4.3
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Prep Time
20 mins
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Cook Time
10 mins
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Total Time
30 mins
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Servings
8 -10 servings
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Course
Salad
Italian Pasta Salad
Description
This pasta salad recipe begins by cooking bowtie pasta until al dente, then rinsing with cold water to stop cooking and remove excess starch. The cooled pasta is tossed with olive oil to keep it from sticking. Italian salami sliced into strips adds a cured, meaty depth, paired with fresh vegetables including cherry tomatoes, diced red onion, roasted red peppers, and cucumber for brightness and crunch. Cubed Colby jack cheese contributes a mild, creamy contrast, while finely shredded Parmesan lends a nutty sharpness.
The entire mixture is dressed generously with Italian dressing and a dash of hot sauce for subtle heat, then tossed to combine. The salad can be eaten immediately or chilled, allowing flavors to meld. Salt and black pepper are adjusted to taste.
It's a versatile side dish suited for picnics, barbecues, or casual meals. Optional ingredients like olives can be added for additional briny flavor. The salad keeps well refrigerated for several days.
Using a bottled dressing provides ease, and substituting cheeses as preferred will slightly change the flavor profile. Storing in an airtight container maximizes freshness.
Ingredients
- 1 pound bowtie pasta or other similar shaped pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 6 ounces Italian salami sliced into strips or diced
- 12 ounces cherry tomato halved
- ½ red onion diced small, medium
- 1 roasted red peppers 12 ounce jar, drained and diced
- 1 cucumber diced, small, English
- 8 ounces Colby jack cheese cut into cubes
- ¼ cup Parmesan Cheese finely shredded
- 1 Italian dressing 16 ounce bottle
- hot sauce dash of
- salt to taste
- black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water, then add to a large bowl with the olive oil. Toss to coat and let the pasta cool.
- Add the salami, vegetables, cheese, dressing and hot sauce to the pasta; toss to combine. Taste and add salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate before serving.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days for best quality.
- You can substitute cubed cheddar cheese or fresh mozzarella balls for the Colby jack.
- Kraft Zesty Italian dressing works well as the salad dressing.
- If desired, add ¼ cup each of drained and halved green and black olives for extra flavor.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
4.3
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