Are you looking for something amazing to bring to a barbecue, neighborhood gathering, or potluck? Look no further! This Italian Pasta Salad is easy to throw together and is always one of the first things to disappear when it shows up at parties.
Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing Recipe
Hello, summer. I love you, and I love this Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing Recipe. Pasta salad is kind of my thing, as you can probably tell from the multitude of Pasta Salad Recipes I have on this site. They are awesome, versatile, and easy to throw together for summer barbecues, potlucks, and get-togethers.
Zesty Italian Pasta Salad is a refreshing and versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Combining tender pasta with a colorful mix of vegetables, pepperoni, and a tangy Italian dressing, this salad is both satisfying and easy to make. The key to its vibrant flavor lies in the Zesty Italian dressing. Whether you’re preparing it as a side dish or a light meal, this pasta salad is a crowd-pleaser that can be customized with your favorite ingredients.
Why you’ll love this dish…
- Versatile: Easy to customize with your favorite pasta and vegetables.
- Quick to Prepare: Simple ingredients come together in no time.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Great for prepping ahead, perfect for gatherings.
- Flavor-Packed: The Zesty Italian dressing adds a bold, tangy taste.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal as a side dish or a light main course.
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Italian Pasta Salad shopping list
Wondering if you have to hit the store? Here’s the list of items you’ll need to make this recipe. For specific amounts, please refer to the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post.
- Pasta, your choice
- Vegetables (Broccoli, Bell Peppers, and Tomatoes, chopped)
- Sliced Black Olives
- Zesty Italian Dressing
- Sliced Pepperoni
- Shredded Parmesan
- Dry Zesty Italian Dressing Seasoning Mix
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How to make a pasta salad with Italian Dressing
Wondering what you’re getting yourself into when you make this dish? Here’s a quick overview of the process! Make sure you follow the instructions at the recipe card at the bottom of the post while you’re cooking.
- Cook the Pasta: Boil the pasta in well-salted water according to package directions. Rinse with cold water after draining.
- Prepare the Vegetables: Chop the broccoli, bell peppers, and tomatoes.
- Combine Ingredients: Mix the cooked pasta, vegetables, sliced pepperoni, and shredded parmesan.
- Add Dressing: Pour in half of the Zesty Italian Dressing. Mix well.
- Finish and Serve: Before serving, add the remaining dressing and the dry seasoning mix, then toss to combine.
Make some Traeger Chicken Thighs for this!
FAQ
Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?
Yes, this pasta salad is perfect for making ahead. Prepare the salad, excluding the remaining dressing and seasoning mix, and refrigerate. Add the final dressing and seasoning just before serving.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Toss the salad before serving to redistribute the dressing.
Can I substitute the pepperoni?
Absolutely! You can substitute pepperoni with salami, turkey, or omit it entirely for a vegetarian option.
What other vegetables can I use?
Feel free to experiment with other vegetables like cucumbers, red onions, or carrots.
Mix in some Grilled Shrimp for more protein!
Serve this with…
- Grilled Chicken: Complements the salad’s flavors with a protein-rich addition.
- Garlic Bread: A crunchy, savory side to balance the freshness of the salad.
- Spiked Arnold Palmer: Refreshing drinks that pair well with the zesty flavors.
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Zesty Italian Pasta Salad
Our zesty italian pasta salad is a wonderful addition to any barbecue, potluck, family gathering, or as a side dish to almost any summer meal.
Ingredients
- 1 pound pasta, your choice
- 3 cups vegetables (broccoli, bell peppers, and tomatoes, chopped)
- 1 cup sliced black olives
- 1 cup Zesty Italian dressing
- 1 cup sliced pepperoni
- 1/2 cup shredded parmesan
- 2 tablespoons dry Zesty Italian dressing seasoning mix
Instructions
- Boil the pasta according to package directions in well-salted water. Rinse in cold water after drained.
- Add the vegetables, pepperoni, and shredded cheese to the noodles.
- For extra flavor, marinate the veggies in the dressing for 3-4 hours prior to putting the salad together. (This is totally optional.)
- Mix in half of the Zesty Italian Dressing. Reserve the other half and the dry seasoning mix for immediately before serving the salad, and then mix in right before serving.
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Nutrition Information:
Yield:
12Serving Size:
1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 227Total Fat: 13gSaturated Fat: 4gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 14mgSodium: 588mgCarbohydrates: 21gFiber: 3gSugar: 4gProtein: 7g
Nutrition data provided here is only an estimate. If you are tracking these things for medical purposes please consult an outside, trusted source. Thanks!
Nicole Johnson
Nicole Johnson, a self-taught expert in grilling and outdoor cooking, launched Or Whatever You Do in 2010. Her blog, renowned for its comprehensive and creative outdoor cooking recipes, has garnered a vast audience of millions. Nicole's hands-on experience and passion for grilling shine through her work. Her husband, Jeremiah Johnson, also plays a pivotal role in recipe development, adding his culinary flair to the mix. Together, they form a dynamic duo, offering a rich and varied outdoor cooking experience to their followers.