Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing 🇮🇹🥗 Zesty, Savory, and Perfect for Any Picnic or Potluck

Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing is a cold pasta dish with punch — loaded with fresh vegetables, savory extras like olives and salami, and tossed in a tangy Italian vinaigrette that makes everything pop.

It’s easy to prep, easy to scale, and even better the next day.

Ingredients (Serves 6–8)

• 12 oz short pasta (rotini, penne, or bowtie)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• ¾ cup cucumber, sliced or chopped
• ½ cup bell pepper (any color), diced
• ½ cup red onion, thinly sliced
• ½ cup mozzarella cubes or mini mozzarella balls
• ¼ cup black or kalamata olives, sliced
• ¼ cup sliced pepperoncini (optional, for tang)
• ½ cup salami, ham, or pepperoni, chopped (optional for protein)
• 2–3 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or basil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Italian Dressing (Homemade or Store-Bought)

• ⅓ cup olive oil
• 3 tbsp red wine vinegar
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• ½ tsp sugar (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Boil pasta in well-salted water until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool completely. Set aside.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, mustard, Italian seasoning, garlic, sugar, salt, and pepper. Or use a high-quality bottled Italian dressing if preferred.

Step 3: Mix and Toss

In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta with veggies, cheese, meats (if using), olives, and herbs. Pour dressing over and toss thoroughly to coat.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

Refrigerate for 30 minutes to 1 hour before serving. Toss again before plating and adjust seasoning as needed.

Variations

• Use grilled zucchini or roasted red peppers for a smoky twist
• Try provolone, feta, or shaved parmesan instead of mozzarella
• Add chickpeas for a vegetarian protein boost
• Swap traditional pasta for gluten-free or whole wheat options

Serving Ideas

• Pair with grilled chicken, burgers, or deli sandwiches
• Bring to barbecues, potlucks, or picnics — it holds up well
• Excellent make-ahead side for weekly meal prep
• Add arugula or spinach just before serving for a greens boost

Pro Tips

• Salt your pasta water — underseasoned pasta will taste flat
• Let the salad chill to fully absorb the flavors
• Add extra dressing just before serving if it’s dried out a bit
• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days

Final Thoughts

Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing is bold, bright, and endlessly satisfying — a side dish that feels like the main event when done right. With tangy dressing, savory bites, and crisp veggies in every forkful, it earns its spot at any table.

Zest it up. Chill it down. Serve it bold. 🇮🇹🥗🍝