This colorful pasta salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish that’s perfect for a summer picnic, a family gathering, or just a simple lunch at home. The combination of fresh vegetables, savory salami, and creamy cheese brings a delightful blend of flavors and textures that make each bite enjoyable.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This pasta salad is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite ingredients or using leftovers. It’s also an excellent way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet. The addition of Olive Garden dressing or a similar brand gives it a tangy kick that will have you going back for seconds! Plus, it’s quick and easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weekdays.
Introduction
Pasta salad has become a staple in many households, and it’s easy to see why. Its adaptability allows you to mix and match ingredients to suit your taste and what you have on hand. This recipe combines colorful noodles with a variety of delicious vegetables, salami, and cheese, all topped off with a flavorful dressing that ties everything together. Whether you’re serving it for lunch, dinner, or as a side dish, this pasta salad is bound to impress.
Let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe that will surely become a favorite in your kitchen!
Ingredients
- One box of your choice of noodles (I used colorful swirl ones)
- One English cucumber, diced
- Half a container of sweet tomatoes, chopped into quarters
- Two cans of black olives, drained and sliced (or one can if preferred)
- One pack of bite-sized salami chopped
- One yellow bell pepper, diced
- One red bell pepper, diced
- One block of Colby Jack cheese, cubed
- Optional: leftover pepperoni, if available, sliced
- Sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for topping
- Olive Garden dressing or a similar vinaigrette
Preparation
Step 1: Start by cooking the noodles according to the package instructions. Make sure to salt the water for extra flavor. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down.
Step 2: While the pasta is cooling, wash and chop all the vegetables. Dice the cucumber, and bell peppers, and quarter the sweet tomatoes. Slice the black olives and chop the bite-sized salami.
Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with the chopped vegetables, salami, and cubed Colby Jack cheese. If you have leftover pepperoni, feel free to add it at this stage.
Step 4: Drizzle the Olive Garden dressing over the salad, mixing thoroughly to ensure everything is well-coated. Adjust the dressing based on your taste preference; add more if you like it saucier.
Step 5: Finish with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Cooking Note:
This pasta salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it a great dish for meal prep. The flavors will continue to develop as it sits.
Presentation Suggestions:
For a beautiful presentation, serve the pasta salad in a large clear bowl to showcase the vibrant colors. You can also garnish with additional herbs such as basil or parsley for a fresh touch. Serve alongside some crusty bread or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Tips:
- Always taste and adjust the seasoning of the dressing before adding it all at once.
- For a healthier twist, consider using whole wheat or gluten-free pasta.
- Feel free to add your choice of protein, such as grilled chicken or chickpeas, to make it more filling.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: Approximately 320
- Protein: 12g
- Sodium: 540mg
Conclusion
This colorful pasta salad is the perfect dish to bring any gathering to life. Not only is it easy to make, but it’s also adaptable to your tastes and dietary needs. With vibrant vegetables and savory flavors, it’s a crowd-pleaser that balances nutrition with deliciousness. Serve it chilled and enjoy the smiles it brings to your table!
Questions and Answers
Q1: Can I use a different type of dressing?
A: Absolutely! You can use any vinaigrette or dressing that you prefer, or even make your own for a homemade touch.
Q2: How can I make this pasta salad vegan?
A: You can omit the salami and cheese and replace the dressing with a dairy-free version. Add more veggies or beans for protein.
Q3: What’s the best way to store leftovers?
A: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days for the best taste and freshness.
Q4: Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?
A: Yes! This pasta salad tastes even better after sitting in the fridge for a few hours or overnight, allowing the flavors to meld.
Q5: What other vegetables can I add?
A: Feel free to add any of your favorite vegetables, such as broccoli, carrots, or even peas. The possibilities are endless!
