You know what’s always a hit at BBQs and potlucks? This Italian Pasta Salad drizzled with Homemade Italian Dressing. With summer fast approaching, it’s time to start thinking about what dishes to bring to those upcoming gatherings. Not only is this pasta salad super easy to make, but it’s also a crowd-pleaser.
Italian Pasta Salad Recipe
First things first, let’s gather our ingredients:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 1/2 red onion, diced
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 English cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/2 cup green olives, sliced
- 1/2 cup pepperoni, sliced
- 1/2 cup salami, sliced
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, diced
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/2 cup Homemade Italian Dressing (recipe below)
Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions. While your pasta cooks, chop your vegetables and meats. Drain the cooked pasta and rinse under cold water to cool.
Combine all of the prepared ingredients in a large mixing bowl. Pour the Homemade Italian Dressing over the pasta salad and toss to combine.
This recipe serves around 10-12 people depending on portion size. It’s a great dish to bring to a potluck or if you’re hosting a gathering.
Homemade Italian Dressing Recipe
You can’t have an Italian Pasta Salad without the dressing!
Gather these ingredients:
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Combine all ingredients in a mason jar and shake until well combined. If you don’t have a mason jar, you can whisk the ingredients together in a small mixing bowl.
Nutrition Information
Here is the nutrition information for a 1 cup serving of this pasta salad:
- Calories: 438
- Protein: 16g
- Fat: 27g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 731mg
FAQ
Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes! You can make this pasta salad ahead of time, but I would suggest leaving the dressing off until you’re ready to serve. If the pasta salad sits too long with the dressing, it can become soggy.
Can I substitute any of the ingredients?
Of course! This recipe is versatile, and you can add or subtract any of the ingredients based on preference or what you have on hand.
Tips For Making The Best Italian Pasta Salad
- Don’t overcook your pasta. Overcooked pasta can turn into mush when mixed with the rest of the ingredients.
- Leave the dressing off until you’re ready to serve.
- Make sure to rinse the pasta under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta.
- Let the pasta salad chill in the fridge for a couple of hours before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld together.
There you have it! A delicious and easy-to-make Italian Pasta Salad that’s perfect for any summer gathering. Don’t forget to make the Homemade Italian Dressing to really take this dish to the next level!
Enjoy!
Recipe: Pasta Salad Dressing
If you’re tired of using store-bought dressings, give this homemade version a try.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Whisk all of the ingredients together in a small mixing bowl. Pour over your pasta salad and mix to combine.
If you’re not a fan of balsamic vinegar, you can substitute with your favorite vinegar. You can also adjust the sweetness or saltiness to your liking.
Additional Tips
Here are a few more tips to help you make the best pasta salad:
- Season the pasta with salt while boiling. This will help ensure the pasta isn’t bland
- If you’re making this dish for a potluck or gathering, double the recipe.
- If you don’t have some of the ingredients for the pasta salad, don’t worry! Substitute with what you do have.
Give this pasta salad recipe a try and let me know what you think! It’s one of my go-to recipes for summer gatherings, and it’s always a hit.
Enjoy!
My Favorite Pasta Salad Dressing
Looking for a pasta salad dressing that’s flavorful and easy to make? Give my favorite recipe a try.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 clove garlic, minced
Combine all of the ingredients in a small mixing bowl and whisk together. Pour over your pasta salad and mix to combine.
This pasta salad dressing is perfect for any pasta salad you’re making. It’s tangy, slightly sweet, and has the perfect amount of garlic.
Wrapping Up
Whether you’re hosting a potluck or attending a gathering, this Italian Pasta Salad with Homemade Italian Dressing is a dish that everyone will love. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for summertime. Give it a try and let me know what you think!
