Zesty Italian Pasta Salad 🌶️🇮🇹 Briny, Bright, and Full of Deli Counter Energy

Zesty Italian Pasta Salad is the bold cousin of classic pasta salad — built on al dente pasta, crunchy vegetables, salami or pepperoni, mozzarella, and a sharp homemade Italian dressing that doesn’t hold back.

Perfect for BBQs, potlucks, or fridge-straight lunches.

Ingredients (Serves 6–8)

• 12 oz rotini or penne pasta
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• ¾ cup cucumber, chopped
• ½ cup red bell pepper, diced
• ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
• ½ cup black or kalamata olives, sliced
• ½ cup cubed mozzarella or mini mozzarella balls
• ½ cup chopped salami or pepperoni (optional)
• ¼ cup sliced pepperoncini
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or basil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Zesty Italian Dressing

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

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water until completely cool. Shake dry.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, mustard, garlic, seasoning, red pepper flakes, and sugar. Season to taste with salt and black pepper.

Step 3: Combine and Toss

In a large bowl, combine pasta with all chopped vegetables, cheese, olives, meats (if using), and herbs. Pour dressing over the top and toss to coat everything evenly.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

Refrigerate for at least 30–60 minutes before serving. Stir again and taste for seasoning — add more dressing or a splash of vinegar if needed.

Flavor Variations

• Swap mozzarella for feta, provolone, or parmesan
• Use chickpeas or white beans for vegetarian protein
• Try sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers for added richness
• Add a spoonful of pesto or Calabrian chili paste to the dressing for extra kick

Serving Ideas

• Serve with grilled sausages, subs, or chicken
• Great make-ahead option for meal prep lunches
• Serve in lettuce cups for a crunchy twist
• Add a handful of arugula or baby spinach for a fresh bite

Pro Tips

• Undercook the pasta slightly — it softens as it chills
• Use good olive oil and sharp vinegar for the best flavor
• Let it sit — the flavor gets better after resting
• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days

Final Thoughts

Zesty Italian Pasta Salad is bold, tangy, and built for sharing (or hoarding). It’s the kind of side that always disappears first — thanks to that sharp vinaigrette, salty bites, and chilled crunch that hits just right.

Chop it fresh. Toss it bold. Chill it down. 🌶️🇮🇹🍝