Italian Pasta Salad with Homemade Italian Dressing Recipe

Introduction

Italian Pasta Salad with Homemade Italian Dressing is a bright and flavorful dish perfect for warm days or as a crowd-pleasing side. This salad combines tender pasta, savory salami, fresh vegetables, and a zesty, tangy dressing made from scratch. It’s easy to prepare and versatile for any meal.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1/4 cup red or white wine vinegar (red preferred)
• 1 1/2 tbsp freshly grated parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 1 large garlic clove, minced
• 1/2 tsp dried basil
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 1/4 tsp dried parsley
• 1/2 tsp dried chilli flakes (red pepper flakes) (optional)
• 3/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 300g (10oz) spiral pasta or pasta of choice
• 180g (6oz) thick sliced salami, cut into 2.5cm (1″) batons
• 200g (7oz) baby bocconcini, halved
• 1 red capsicum/bell pepper, cut into 3cm strips
• 250g (8oz) whole olives, pitted (Sicilian and black recommended)
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup tightly packed fresh basil leaves

Instructions

1. Step 1: Place olive oil, vinegar, parmesan cheese, sugar, minced garlic, dried basil, oregano, parsley, chilli flakes (if using), salt, and pepper into a jar. Shake well to combine and create the dressing.
2. Step 2: Cook the pasta according to the package directions, reducing the cooking time by one minute. Drain the pasta in a colander and rinse it under cold water to stop further cooking. Shake off excess water thoroughly.
3. Step 3: Transfer the cooled pasta into a large bowl. Add the salami, baby bocconcini, capsicum strips, olives, cherry tomatoes, and fresh basil leaves.
4. Step 4: Drizzle the homemade Italian dressing over the pasta and other ingredients. Toss everything gently to combine and coat evenly.
5. Step 5: Serve the pasta salad at room temperature for best flavor and texture.
6. Step 6 (Make Ahead PRO TIP): Before draining the pasta, scoop out one mug of pasta cooking water. Add 3 tablespoons of this water to the dressing jar, shake well, and use this version of the dressing to toss with the pasta salad. Reserve 3 tablespoons of this dressing mixture to freshen up the salad on subsequent days.
7. Step 7: To freshen the pasta salad later, bring it to room temperature or warm briefly in the microwave. Toss with the reserved dressing and serve.

Tips & Variations

• Use spicy salami to add a bit of heat, or substitute with pepperoni or pancetta for a different flavor.
• Swap bocconcini with mozzarella balls if preferred.
• Add roasted vegetables like zucchini or eggplant for extra depth and texture.
• Include fresh lemon juice in the dressing for a brighter, tangier taste.
• Use a mix of black and green olives or add capers for a more Mediterranean touch.

Storage

Store the pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Before serving leftovers, allow the salad to come to room temperature or heat gently in the microwave, then toss with reserved dressing to refresh the flavors and moisture. Avoid freezing as the texture of fresh ingredients and dressing will change.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any pasta shape works well in this salad. Spiral, penne, fusilli, or farfalle hold the dressing nicely and mix well with the other ingredients.

Is it necessary to rinse the pasta after cooking?

Rinsing the pasta stops it from cooking further and cools it down quickly, preventing it from sticking. It also helps maintain the salad’s texture when mixed with the dressing and other ingredients.