Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until
al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta completely.
While the pasta cools, prepare the remaining ingredients. Slice the summer sausage, halve the grape
tomatoes, dice the vegetables, and chop the parsley.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, summer sausage, tomatoes, black olives, red onion,
cucumber, bell peppers, and mozzarella pearls.
Pour the Italian dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently until everything is evenly coated. Add
the parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to blend together.
Serving and Storage:
Italian Pasta Salad is best served chilled or slightly cool. It makes an excellent side dish for grilled
meats, sandwiches, or as a standalone meal.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If the pasta absorbs too
much dressing over time, simply add a splash of extra Italian dressing before serving.
Tips:
- Cook pasta just until al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy.
- Chop vegetables evenly for balanced bites.
- Use high-quality Italian dressing for the best flavor.
- Add dressing gradually if you prefer a lighter salad.
- This salad tastes even better after chilling for a few hours.
Conclusion:
Italian Pasta Salad is a versatile, crowd-pleasing recipe that never goes out of style. Its combination of
fresh vegetables, savory meats, and creamy cheeses makes it both satisfying and refreshing.
Whether you’re preparing it for a summer gathering or a simple family meal, this dish delivers consistent
flavor, easy preparation, and reliable results every time.
FAQ:
Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?
Yes, it’s ideal for making ahead. Prepare it up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Can I substitute the summer sausage?
Absolutely. Salami, pepperoni, or grilled chicken work well as alternatives.
What pasta works best for pasta salad?
Short pasta shapes like rotini, penne, or bowtie hold dressing well and are easy to serve.
Is this pasta salad vegetarian?
Not as written, but you can easily make it vegetarian by omitting the sausage or replacing it with chickpeas.
How do I keep pasta salad from drying out?
Reserve a small amount of dressing and stir it in just before serving to refresh the salad.