This bold and flavorful pasta salad is loaded with savory meats, crunchy vegetables, and a homemade zesty Italian dressing—perfect for potlucks, picnics, or a quick weekday lunch.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Classic Italian flavors with a tangy, herby dressing

• Packed with meats, fresh veggies, and creamy mozzarella pearls

• Easy to prepare ahead and perfect for gatherings

• Versatile enough to customize with your favorite ingredients

• Great served cold, making it ideal for warm weather meals

Ingredients

For the Dressing:

• ½ cup extra virgin olive oil

• ¼ cup red wine vinegar

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• ¼ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 teaspoon sugar

• 1 teaspoon dried parsley

• 1 teaspoon dried basil

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ teaspoon onion powder

• ½ teaspoon paprika

• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Salad:

• 12 oz rotini or pasta of choice

• ½ cup sliced pepperoni

• ½ cup chopped salami

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• ½ cup black olives, sliced

• 1 cup chopped bell peppers

• ½ cup thinly sliced red onion

• ½ cup sliced pepperoncini

• 1 cup mozzarella pearls

• Grated Parmesan and chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Directions

1. Whisk all dressing ingredients together in a bowl, or combine in a jar and shake vigorously until well blended. Refrigerate the dressing until ready to use.

2. Cook pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and place the warm pasta into a large serving bowl.

3. Pour half of the prepared dressing over the warm pasta and toss well to coat evenly.

4. Add pepperoni, salami, cherry tomatoes, black olives, bell peppers, red onion, pepperoncini, and mozzarella pearls to the bowl. Toss everything gently to combine.

5. Cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld, or up to 24 hours for best taste.

6. Before serving, toss the salad with the remaining dressing. Garnish with extra grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley.

Serving Ideas

• Serve as a side dish at BBQs or picnics

• Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal

• Pair with crusty bread for a complete lunch

• Enjoy chilled straight from the fridge on hot days

Tips & Variations

• Use your favorite pasta shape—fusilli or penne work great too

• Swap salami and pepperoni for cooked Italian sausage or ham

• Add a handful of fresh spinach or arugula for extra greens

• For a lighter version, reduce the oil or use a light Italian dressing

• Make it vegan by skipping cheese and meats, or use plant-based alternatives

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I prepare this salad in advance?

Yes, it tastes even better after sitting in the fridge for a few hours or overnight.

How long does this pasta salad keep?

Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I freeze this pasta salad?

Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of the pasta and fresh ingredients may suffer.

What if I don’t have pepperoncini?

Pickled banana peppers or mild pickled jalapeños can be good substitutes.

Final Thoughts

Zesty Italian Pasta Salad is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that brings vibrant colors and bold tastes to your table. The homemade dressing ties everything together perfectly, making it a go-to recipe for gatherings or a satisfying everyday meal. Whether served as a side or a main, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.