classic italian pasta salad

5 from 1 vote
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients

  • 1 pound rotini pasta
  • 1 cup dried salami diced
  • 1 cup pepperoncini diced
  • 2 cups grape tomatoes halved
  • 1 cup sliced black olives drained
  • 1 cup marinated artichoke hearts chopped
  • 8 ounces fresh mozzarella balls halved
  • ¾ cup shredded parmesan cheese
  • ¼ cup fresh parsley minced

FOR ITALIAN VINAIGRETTE

  • cup red wine vinegar
  • cup pepperoncini juice
  • 1 shallot minced
  • 2 teaspoons whole grain mustard
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • cup extra-virgin olive oil

Instructions

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 1 lb. pasta according to package directions and drain.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup diced salami, 1 cup pepperoncini, 2 cups halved grape tomatoes, 1 cup sliced black olives,1 cup artichoke hearts, 1 cup mozzarella balls halved, ¾ cup shredded Parmesan cheese, and ¼ cup fresh parsley.
  • For the dressing: In a mixing bowl, combine ⅓ cup red wine vinegar, ⅓ cup pepperoncini juice, 1 minced shallot, 2 teaspoons whole grain mustard, and 2 cloves minced garlic (or frozen cubes). Whisk in ⅔ cup olive oil and season with a big pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
  • Keep salad in the fridge for 2-3 days. If you can, make a few hours in advance to allow the flavors to marry with one another.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS

  • Serve with grilled chicken, fresh fruit, and a crisp green salad.

SWAP SUGGESTIONS

  • Protein: Swap salami for pepperoni or shaved pancetta.
  • Vegetarian: Swap the salami for 2 (15 oz.) cans of garbanzo beans.
  • Gluten-Free: Use your favorite gluten free pasta.
  • Vegan/Dairy-Free: Remove the cheese and salami, and increase the other ingredients.

WEEKEND PREP / MAKE AHEAD

  • Prepare the completed pasta salad and store in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Nutrition

Calories: 826kcal | Carbohydrates: 65g | Protein: 29g | Fat: 50g | Saturated Fat: 14g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 27g | Cholesterol: 53mg | Sodium: 1373mg | Potassium: 517mg | Fiber: 6g | Sugar: 5g | Vitamin A: 1494IU | Vitamin C: 41mg | Calcium: 393mg | Iron: 3mg