Introduction:
Prepare your taste buds for an explosion of flavors with our recipe for “The Best Pasta Salad.” This delightful medley of rotini, cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, salami, and zesty dressing is a celebration of textures and tastes. Whether you’re planning a picnic or a potluck, this pasta salad is your ticket to a crowd-pleasing dish that will have everyone asking for the recipe.
Ingredients:
Pasta Salad:
- 1 pound uncooked pasta (rotini recommended)
- 3 cups cherry tomatoes, cut in half
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese balls, cut in half
- 1 lb. salami or summer sausage, cut into cubes
- 3/4 cup kalamata olives, sliced
- 3/4 cup pepperoncini (optional, but highly recommended)
- 1/2 cup sliced red onion
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Italian Pasta Salad Dressing:
- 1 1/2 cups olive oil
- 1/4 cup white vinegar (white or red wine vinegar)
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 tablespoons coarse sea salt
- 2 cloves garlic (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 teaspoons each dry oregano and dry basil
- Black pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs if desired (e.g., parsley, basil, chives)
Instructions:
- Cook Pasta: Boil the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and let it cool.
- Prepare Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, salami, kalamata olives, pepperoncini, red onion, and fresh parsley.
- Make Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, water, sea salt, garlic, sugar, dry oregano, dry basil, and black pepper. Adjust to taste. If desired, add fresh herbs.
- Combine and Chill: Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently until everything is well coated. Refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours to let the flavors meld.
- Serve: Take the pasta salad out of the fridge, give it a good stir, and serve chilled. Enjoy the vibrant and savory goodness!
Why You’ll Love This Pasta Salad:
- Versatile and Colorful: A visual feast with a mix of vibrant colors.
- Zesty Dressing: The Italian dressing adds a burst of flavor to every bite.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for picnics, BBQs, or a quick weeknight dinner.
Conclusion:
Elevate your pasta experience with “The Best Pasta Salad” that combines freshness, savory goodness, and a zesty kick. Perfectly balanced and visually appealing, this salad is a culinary celebration. Impress your guests or treat your family to a dish that’s not just a side but a star on the table. Try it out and savor the joy of creating and indulging in this pasta masterpiece!