Description
3 cups cooked rotini pasta
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
½ cup cucumber, diced
½ cup black olives, sliced
¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
½ cup mozzarella pearls
¼ cup salami, chopped
¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
Dressing:
¼ cup olive oil
2 tbsp red wine vinegar
1 tsp Dijon mustard
½ tsp dried oregano
½ tsp garlic powder
Salt and black pepper to taste
Directions:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rotini pasta, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, black olives, red onion, mozzarella pearls, salami, and fresh basil.
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is evenly coated.
Let the salad sit for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Serve chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy!
Prep Time: 15 minutes Cooking Time: 0 minutes Total Time: 15 minutes Kcal: 280 per serving Servings: 6 servings
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for the perfect pasta salad every time.
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. This ensures your pasta stays firm and doesn’t become mushy in the salad.
- Prepare Ingredients: While the pasta cooks, halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber, thinly slice the red onion and black olives, and chop the fresh basil and salami. Having all components ready makes assembly quick and easy.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, vigorously whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. The Dijon mustard helps emulsify the dressing, creating a cohesive, non-separating sauce.
- Combine and Marinate: In your large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, all chopped vegetables, mozzarella pearls, salami, and basil. Pour the dressing over the top and toss thoroughly until every ingredient is coated. Cover and refrigerate for a minimum of 10 minutes, though 30 minutes is ideal for the flavors to fully meld.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile salad is perfect for any occasion. Serve it as a hearty main dish for a light lunch, or as a standout side at your next barbecue or potluck. For a complete meal, pair it with grilled chicken, fish, or a simple crusty bread. To elevate the presentation, serve it on a large platter garnished with extra fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.
How-to Summary
Cook and cool rotini pasta. Chop all fresh ingredients (tomatoes, cucumber, onion, olives, basil, salami). Whisk dressing ingredients in a separate bowl. Combine everything in a large bowl, toss with the dressing, and let marinate for at least 10 minutes before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?
Absolutely. This salad tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
What are some good protein substitutions for the salami?
Grilled chicken, chickpeas, canned tuna, pepperoni, or cubed ham are excellent alternatives. For a vegetarian version, simply omit the salami or add more mozzarella.
My pasta salad seems dry. How can I fix it?
Pasta absorbs dressing over time. Simply whisk together a small, fresh batch of the dressing (even just olive oil and vinegar) and stir it into the salad before serving.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes. Any short pasta with grooves or shapes that hold dressing well will work, such as fusilli, farfalle (bow-tie), or penne.
How can I prevent the salad from becoming watery?
Ensure your pasta is fully cooled before mixing, and pat diced cucumbers dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. Avoid overdressing the salad initially.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using Warm Pasta: Adding dressing to warm pasta causes it to absorb too much oil and become gummy. Always rinse and cool your pasta completely.
- Skipping the Marinating Time: The resting period is crucial for flavor. Don’t serve it immediately after tossing.
- Overcooking the Pasta: Mushy pasta will ruin the salad’s texture. Cook only to al dente, as it will soften slightly while marinating.
- Not Seasoning the Pasta Water: Salting the boiling water is your only chance to season the pasta itself, which is the salad’s base.
Conclusion
This Italian Rotini Pasta Salad is a reliable, crowd-pleasing recipe that combines minimal effort with maximum flavor. Its balance of savory salami, fresh vegetables, creamy cheese, and zesty dressing makes it a perfect fit for weekly meal prep or festive gatherings. By following the step-by-step guide and heeding the common mistakes, you can create a vibrant, delicious dish that’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Enjoy the simplicity and taste of this classic salad.