Looking for more pasta salad recipes? Try our Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad, Pesto Pasta Salad, or Tuna Pasta Salad.
What I love about this recipe:
The Dressing – The simple homemade Italian Pasta Salad dressing is quick to make with pantry ingredients and really sets this pasta salad apart from the rest. EVERYONE loves it! Talk about a crowd pleaser; all ages love this zesty Italian Pasta Salad! Make Ahead and Travel Friendly makes this perfect for any potluck or picnic. It’s a great easy meal to bring camping, boating, or to a beach day. During the school year I make a big batch to use for kids school lunch ideas during the week.
Make Ahead Instructions:
To Make Ahead: This cold Italian Pasta Salad can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days, making it perfect for meal prep. Cook Pasta according to package instructions. Drain water and rinse pasta in cold water. Allow to cool, then pour half of the salad dressing and toss to combine. Add Ingredients: Add mozzarella cheese pearls, salami, black olives, red onion, cherry tomatoes, fresh parsley, parmesan, pepperoncini (optional), and additional dressing, to taste. Refrigerate pasta salad with Italian dressing for 1 hour or longer, before serving.
Recipe Variations:
Add Meat/Protein: Add cooked chopped ham or chicken. Veggie Substitutions: Add chopped bell pepper, shredded carrot, or cooked sautéed veggies, like zucchini, asparagus, broccoli, or any other veggies you like. Meatless Italian Pasta Salad: Leave the meat out and add extra vegetables. Swap the Noodles: Use farfalle, penne, or any favorite bite-size pasta. Gluten Free: Use your favorite gluten free bite size pasta noodles. We have had great luck with the Barilla rotini pasta.
More Pasta Salad Recipes:
Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad Healthy Chicken Pasta Salad BBQ Chicken Pasta Salad Pasta Primavera Teriyaki Pasta Salad Creamy Pesto Tortellini Tuna Pasta Salad
*I first shared this recipe in May 2016. Updated August 2018, June 2021 and May 2023.
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