Italian Pasta Salad Supreme

Perfect For

Summer BBQs • Potlucks • Meal Prep • Family Gatherings • Light Lunches

Estimated Calories

Approximately 350–500 calories per serving

Introduction

This Italian Pasta Salad Supreme is loaded with tri-color rotini, mozzarella pearls, crisp cucumbers, juicy cherry tomatoes, savory salami, olives, red onion, and a zesty Italian dressing. Fresh, colorful, and bursting with Mediterranean-inspired flavors, it's the perfect make-ahead dish for any occasion.

Ingredients

Salad

• 500 g tri-color rotini pasta

• 1 cup mozzarella pearls

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1 cucumber, diced

• ½ red onion, thinly sliced

• ½ cup black olives, sliced

• ½ cup green olives, sliced

• 150 g salami, diced

• ¼ cup fresh basil leaves

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Italian Dressing

• ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil

• 3 tbsp red wine vinegar

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

• 1 tsp Dijon mustard

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

• 1 garlic clove, minced

• ½ tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

2. Cook pasta until al dente.

3. Drain and rinse under cold water.

4. Allow pasta to cool completely.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

1. Combine olive oil, vinegar, lemon juice, mustard, garlic, and seasonings.

2. Whisk until fully blended.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

1. Place cooled pasta in a large bowl.

2. Add mozzarella, tomatoes, cucumber, olives, red onion, and salami.

3. Pour dressing over the salad.

4. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated.

Step 4: Chill

1. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

2. This allows flavors to develop and blend together.

Step 5: Garnish & Serve

1. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.

2. Add fresh basil leaves.

3. Serve chilled.

Why You'll Love It

Fresh & Flavorful

• Crisp vegetables

• Tangy dressing

• Bright Mediterranean flavors

Great for Meal Prep

• Tastes even better the next day

• Easy to transport

Balanced Texture

• Tender pasta

• Creamy mozzarella

• Crunchy vegetables

• Savory salami

Serving Suggestions

Pairs perfectly with:

• Grilled chicken

• Steak

• BBQ ribs

• Garlic bread

• Roasted vegetables

Storage

Refrigerator

Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Refresh Before Serving

Add a splash of olive oil or dressing if the pasta absorbs too much liquid.

Variations

Mediterranean Version

Add feta cheese and roasted red peppers.

Protein-Packed Version

Add grilled chicken or shrimp.

Vegetarian Version

Omit salami and add chickpeas.

Spicy Version

Mix in pepperoncini peppers and red pepper flakes.

Tips for Success

• Cook pasta just until al dente.

• Rinse pasta with cold water to stop cooking.

• Chill before serving for best flavor.

• Use freshly grated Parmesan whenever possible.

• Toss again before serving.

What Makes It Special

✔ Bright and colorful presentation
✔ Easy make-ahead recipe
✔ Perfect balance of fresh and savory flavors
✔ Ideal for entertaining
✔ Family-friendly and customizable
✔ Delicious served cold

This Italian Pasta Salad Supreme is a refreshing, crowd-pleasing dish packed with pasta, vegetables, mozzarella, olives, and zesty Italian dressing—perfect for warm days, parties, and meal prep. 🍝🥒🍅🫒🧀✨