Classic Pasta Salad
The best Classic Pasta Salad made with Italian meats, creamy cheeses, fresh vegetables, and all tossed in a creamy homemade Italian dressing. The perfect pasta salad recipe!
Servings: 8
Equipment
- measuring cups and spoons
- spatula set
Ingredients
- 1 lb. Pasta *
- 4 ounces Salami ** (cut into chunks)
- 4 ounces Pepperoni
- 16 ounces Cubed Cheese (cheddar, white cheddar, pepper jack, or fresh mozzarella)
- 1 to 2 Red, Yellow, or Orange Peppers (diced)
- 1 pint Cherry Tomatoes (sliced)
- 1/4 Red Onion (finely diced)
- 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese
Pasta Salad Dressing:
- 1 cup Extra-Virgin Olive Oil
- 2 Tablespoons Mayonnaise
- 1/3 cup Red Wine Vinegar
- 2 Garlic Cloves (or 1/4 teaspoon Garlic Powder)
- 1/2 teaspoon Dried Oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon Red Chili Flakes
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1 teaspoon Pepper
Instructions
- Heat a large pot of water over high heat and bring to a boil. Generously salt the water. This will infuse the pasta with the salt and give it more flavor. Once the water is boiling, cook the pasta according to package instructions.
- Meanwhile, prepare the meats, cheese, and cut up the vegetables.
- Make the dressing in a food processor or blender by mixing the oil, mayonnaise, vinegar, garlic, dried oregano, red chili flakes, salt, and pepper together until smooth.
- In a large bowl, toss the pasta with the vegetables. Add the dressing and fold in the meats and cheeses.
- Cover and place in the refrigerator to chill for at least 30 minutes.
Notes
Pasta Ideas:
- Rotini
- Campanelle
- Gemelli
- Tortellini
- Farfalle (Bowtie)
- Fusilli
- Cavatappi
- Rotelle
- Penne
- Orecchiette
- Penne or Ziti or Rigatoni Pasta
