Zesty Italian Pasta Salad
This pasta salad isn’t shy—it’s bold, tangy, and full of attitude. Loaded with fresh veggies, savory meats, and a punchy Italian dressing, it’s basically a flavor explosion in a bowl. The pasta absorbs all that zesty goodness, making every bite dangerously addictive. It’s the perfect side dish, main course, or excuse to eat an unreasonable amount of cheese. Whether you’re meal prepping or just avoiding boring salads, this one delivers. Serve it at a barbecue, pack it for lunch, or devour it straight from the mixing bowl. Just don’t expect leftovers—people will fight for the last bite.
Zesty Italian Pasta Salad
A vibrant, tangy pasta salad packed with fresh vegetables, savory meats, and bold Italian dressing. Perfect for parties, meal prep, or solo indulgence.
Ingredients
- 12 oz rotini pasta because spirals hold more dressing
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved (juicy bursts of freshness)
- 1 cup cucumber diced (for that refreshing crunch)
- ½ cup red bell pepper chopped (adds sweetness and color)
- ½ cup black olives sliced (briny perfection)
- ½ cup salami diced (a little salty indulgence)
- ½ cup mozzarella pearls because cheese is essential
- ¼ cup red onion thinly sliced (adds a sharp kick)
- ⅓ cup Parmesan grated (because there’s no such thing as too much cheese)
- ½ cup Italian dressing homemade or store-bought
- 1 tbsp olive oil for extra richness
- ½ tsp black pepper season like you mean it
- ½ tsp salt adjust to taste
- 1 tsp oregano because it makes everything better
Instructions
- Boil pasta in salted water until al dente—because overcooked pasta is a crime. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- Chop all the vegetables, meats, and cheese while resisting the urge to snack on everything.
- Whisk together Italian dressing, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
- Toss pasta, meats, veggies, and cheese in a large bowl until well combined.
- Pour in the dressing and mix thoroughly so every bite is packed with flavor.
- Sprinkle Parmesan on top like your life depends on it. Serve immediately or chill for even better flavor.
Notes
Nutritional Values (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380
- Total Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 14g
Vitamins & Minerals (Per Serving)
- Calcium: 18%
- Iron: 10%
- Vitamin A: 12%
- Vitamin C: 8%
- Potassium: 10%
Additional Notes & Tips
- Swap salami for pepperoni if you like a little spice.
- Use whole-wheat pasta to pretend it’s healthy.
- Add fresh basil for extra Italian vibes.
- Make it a day ahead—flavors get even better overnight.
- Double the batch if you want leftovers (trust me, you will).
