Best Italian Pasta Salad Recipe- Easy & Delicious

Craving a refreshing and flavorful side dish that’s perfect for any occasion? Look no further than this Best Italian Pasta Salad! It’s incredibly easy to whip up, packed with vibrant Italian flavors, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser for your next potluck or family meal.

Ingredients

• 1 lb rotini or farfalle pasta, cooked al dente and cooled
• 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 red onion, thinly sliced or finely chopped
• 1 cup black olives, pitted and sliced
• 1 cup mozzarella balls (bocconcini), halved or quartered
• 4 oz pepperoni or salami, diced or sliced into quarters
• 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp dried basil
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for serving, optional)

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain thoroughly and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Let it cool completely while you prepare other ingredients.
2. While the pasta cools, prepare your vegetables: halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the green bell pepper, thinly slice the red onion, slice the black olives, and halve or quarter the mozzarella balls. Dice the pepperoni or salami.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, diced green bell pepper, sliced red onion, sliced black olives, mozzarella balls, and diced pepperoni/salami. Add the chopped fresh basil.
4. Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season generously with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture. Toss gently to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated and well combined.
6. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld beautifully. For best results, chill for 3-4 hours or even overnight.
7. Before serving, give the salad another gentle toss. If desired, sprinkle with extra grated Parmesan cheese for an added savory touch.