Print

Easy Italian Antipasto Pasta Salad Recipe for Perfect Potlucks

Italian antipasto pasta salad - featured image
Print Recipe

A quick and flavorful Italian antipasto pasta salad combining salami, mozzarella, olives, and crisp veggies tossed in a zesty Italian dressing. Perfect for potlucks and easy to prepare in about 20 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz (340 g) rotini or penne pasta
  • 6 oz (170 g) sliced salami, chopped
  • 8 oz (225 g) fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), halved
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup sliced black olives
  • 1/2 cup diced green bell pepper
  • 1/2 cup diced red onion
  • 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 3 tbsp red wine vinegar
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil or parsley
  • Optional: 1/4 cup roasted red peppers, chopped

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 oz rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions, about 9-11 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  2. Drain the pasta in a colander and rinse under cold water to stop cooking. Set aside to drain completely.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil, 3 tbsp red wine vinegar, 1 tsp dried oregano, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, and salt and pepper to taste. Adjust seasoning as desired.
  4. Halve 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls, halve 1 cup cherry tomatoes, slice 1/2 cup black olives, and dice 1/2 cup each of green bell peppers and red onion. If using, chop 1/4 cup roasted red peppers and fresh basil or parsley.
  5. In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooled pasta with the Italian dressing until evenly coated. Add the salami, mozzarella, tomatoes, olives, bell peppers, onion, and any optional extras. Toss gently to mix without breaking up the cheese.
  6. Cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. It can be made up to a day ahead.
  7. Before serving, give it a quick stir and adjust salt or pepper if needed. If the salad seems dry, drizzle a touch more olive oil or vinegar.

Notes

Do not overcook pasta; rinse under cold water to stop cooking and prevent mushiness. Use fresh mozzarella for best texture. Let the salad chill for at least 30 minutes or overnight for best flavor. Adjust seasoning after chilling. Avoid freezing as texture changes.

Nutrition

Keywords: Italian antipasto pasta salad, potluck salad, easy pasta salad, antipasto salad, rotini pasta salad, mozzarella salad, salami pasta salad

Find it online: https://junomeals.com/easy-italian-antipasto-pasta-salad-recipe-for-perfect-potlucks/