Description
Enjoy the Best Italian Pasta Salad for Picnics, featuring a delightful blend of flavors from fresh mozzarella, salami, and vibrant veggies. It’s an easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for picnics, gatherings, or a quick, satisfying meal at home.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup white vinegar
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 teaspoons dry oregano
- 2 teaspoons dry basil
- black pepper to taste
- fresh herbs if desired
- 1 pound uncooked pasta (preferably rotini)
- one 10-oz. package cherry tomatoes, halved
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese balls
- 8 ounces salami, cut into cubes or strips
- 1/2 cup pitted kalamata olives, sliced
- 1 cup sliced pepperoncini
- 1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the dressing by blending the dressing ingredients in a small blender or food processor.
- Boil 4 quarts of water with 1 tablespoon of kosher salt in a large pot. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Once done, drain and rinse the pasta with cold water, tossing it with a little oil to avoid sticking.
- In a very large bowl, combine the cooked pasta and all remaining ingredients. Pour the dressing over and gently toss to combine. Garnish with additional parsley for presentation.
Notes
Double the dressing if preparing in advance for better flavor.
Feel free to add fresh herbs like parsley or basil for extra freshness.
Experiment with different pasta types or veggies based on your preference.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 890mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 15mg