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Zesty Italian Pasta Salad


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  • Author: Chef Emma
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A vibrant and refreshing pasta salad perfect for summer gatherings, filled with colorful vegetables and Italian flavors.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces pasta (fusilli or penne)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
  • 1/2 cup bell pepper, diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, chopped
  • 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
  • 1/2 cup salami or pepperoni, cubed
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, cubed
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
  • 1/3 cup Italian dressing
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and let cool until it’s nice and tender.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, crunchy cucumber, sweet bell pepper, zesty red onion, briny black olives, cubed salami, and creamy mozzarella.
  3. Sprinkle in the fresh basil and pour the Italian dressing over the colorful mixture.
  4. Toss everything together gently until well combined, allowing all those flavors to mingle beautifully.
  5. Season with salt and pepper to taste—just a pinch or two will enhance the dish.
  6. For best results, refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Notes

Make-ahead friendly; flavors develop overnight. Swap ingredients based on preferences.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 310
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 590mg
  • Fat: 17g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg