A zesty Italian pasta salad is the perfect combination of bold flavors, fresh vegetables, and a tangy homemade dressing. It’s a quick and easy dish that’s ideal for picnics, barbecues, potlucks, or a light lunch. With its vibrant ingredients and refreshing taste, this pasta salad is a crowd-pleaser every time.
In this recipe, you’ll learn how to make a delicious and easy Italian pasta salad with the best ingredients and step-by-step instructions.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Easy to make – Requires minimal prep and no complicated steps.
✔ Bursting with flavor – The zesty Italian dressing brings all the ingredients together.
✔ Customizable – Add your favorite veggies, meats, or cheeses.
✔ Make-ahead friendly – Tastes even better after chilling in the fridge.
✔ Great for any occasion – Perfect for summer gatherings, lunch, or meal prep.
Ingredients for Zesty Italian Pasta Salad
For the Pasta Salad:
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12 oz rotini pasta (or any short pasta like fusilli or penne)
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1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
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1 cup cucumber, diced
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½ cup red bell pepper, chopped
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½ cup yellow bell pepper, chopped
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½ cup black olives, sliced
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½ cup red onion, thinly sliced
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½ cup pepperoni or salami, sliced (optional)
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1 cup mozzarella cheese, cubed or pearl-sized
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¼ cup parmesan cheese, grated
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¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
For the Zesty Italian Dressing:
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½ cup olive oil
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¼ cup red wine vinegar
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1 tablespoon lemon juice
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1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
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1 teaspoon honey or sugar
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon dried oregano
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1 teaspoon dried basil
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½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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½ teaspoon salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
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Add the rotini pasta and cook until al dente (about 8-10 minutes).
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Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. This also prevents the pasta from sticking together.
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Transfer the cooled pasta to a large mixing bowl.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables and Other Ingredients
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Chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell peppers, red onion, and olives into bite-sized pieces.
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Slice the pepperoni or salami if using.
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Cube the mozzarella cheese and grate the parmesan cheese.
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Finely chop the fresh parsley.
Step 3: Make the Zesty Italian Dressing
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In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard.
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Add honey, garlic powder, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, black pepper, and salt.
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Whisk until all ingredients are well combined. Adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 4: Assemble the Pasta Salad
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Add the chopped vegetables, meats, and cheeses to the bowl of pasta.
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Pour the zesty Italian dressing over the salad.
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Toss everything together until well coated.
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Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
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Before serving, give the salad a final toss.
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Garnish with extra parmesan cheese and fresh parsley.
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Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Tips for the Best Italian Pasta Salad
✔ Use al dente pasta – Overcooked pasta can turn mushy, so cook it just right.
✔ Chill before serving – This enhances the flavors and makes the salad even tastier.
✔ Customize with protein – Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for extra protein.
✔ Try different cheeses – Swap mozzarella for feta or provolone for a new twist.
✔ Use fresh ingredients – Fresh vegetables make a big difference in taste and texture.
Variations and Substitutions
Vegetarian Italian Pasta Salad
- Skip the pepperoni or salami for a completely vegetarian version.
Gluten-Free Option
- Use gluten-free pasta instead of regular pasta.
Creamy Italian Pasta Salad
- Mix in 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise or Greek yogurt for a creamy dressing.
Spicy Italian Pasta Salad
- Add extra red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños for a kick of heat.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long does Italian pasta salad last in the fridge?
It stays fresh for 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
2. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! This pasta salad tastes even better when made a few hours ahead to allow the flavors to blend.
3. Can I use store-bought Italian dressing?
Yes, but homemade dressing gives the salad a fresher and more flavorful taste.
4. Can I freeze pasta salad?
Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of fresh vegetables and pasta changes when thawed.
This zesty Italian pasta salad is the perfect dish for any occasion. Packed with fresh vegetables, bold flavors, and a homemade Italian dressing, it’s a simple yet delicious recipe that everyone will love. Whether you’re making it for a summer picnic, potluck, or a quick weekday meal, this salad is sure to be a hit. Try it today and enjoy a refreshing and flavorful pasta salad!