If you've made my viral Chopped Italian Sandwich, then you're going to love this Italian Pasta Salad. It takes all those bold Italian deli flavors-salami, mozzarella, tomatoes, banana peppers, and a creamy zesty dressing-and transforms them into the ultimate pasta salad.
This recipe is easy to make, perfect for cookouts, potlucks, meal prep, and summer gatherings. Every bite is loaded with flavor thanks to a creamy Italian dressing, fresh vegetables, savory salami, and plenty of parmesan cheese.
Whether you're serving it alongside burgers, grilled chicken, or enjoying it as a meal by itself, this Italian Pasta Salad is guaranteed to disappear fast.
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Why I Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to make
- Perfect for summer cookouts and BBQs
- Inspired by my viral Chopped Italian Sandwich
Ingredients
- 1 lb tri-color rotini pasta
- 8 oz salami, chopped
- 8 oz mozzarella pearls
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ red onion, finely diced
- 1 cup banana peppers, chopped
For the dressing:
- 1 cup Italian dressing
- ½ cup ranch dressing
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
See recipe card for quantities.
Pro Tips for the Best Results
- Cook the pasta just until al dente. Overcooked pasta can become mushy once mixed with the dressing.
- A little time in the refrigerator helps the dressing absorb into the pasta and makes the flavors even better.
Storage
Storage:
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Final Bite.
This Italian Pasta Salad takes everything you love about a classic Italian sandwich and turns it into an easy, crowd-pleasing side dish.
Loaded with bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and a creamy zesty dressing, it's perfect for cookouts, potlucks, meal prep, or whenever you need a quick and delicious meal. Make it once, and don't be surprised when everyone asks for the recipe.
Italian Pasta Salad
If you've made my viral Chopped Italian Sandwich, then you're going to love this Italian Pasta Salad. It takes all those bold Italian deli flavors-salami, mozzarella, tomatoes, banana peppers, and a creamy zesty dressing-and transforms them into the ultimate pasta salad.
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 8
Ingredients
Pasta Salad
- 1 lb tri color rotini pasta
- 8 oz salami, chopped
- 8 oz mozzarella pearls
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ red onion, diced
- 1 cup banana peppers
Dressing:
- 1 cup Italian dressing
- ½ cup ranch dressing
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Cook rotini according to package directions. Drain and rinse with cold water.
- In a large bowl, whisk together Italian dressing, ranch dressing, parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes.
- Add cooled pasta and toss to coat.
- Add salami, mozzarella pearls, cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, and banana peppers.
- Mix until everything is evenly distributed.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Serve chilled and enjoy.
Notes
- Make up to one day ahead for even better flavor.
- Add extra parmesan cheese before serving.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Side Dish
- Cuisine: Italian
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