Get ready to embark on a culinary journey through the vibrant streets of Italy with this irresistible Italian Antipasti Deli Pasta Salad! Imagine a perfect blend of al dente pasta, zesty salami, creamy mozzarella, and tangy roasted red peppers, all dancing together in a light, refreshing dressing. This isn't just a salad – it's a portable feast that will make your friends and family beg for the recipe. Whether you're planning a summer picnic, a quick lunch, or a stunning side dish, this antipasti pasta salad is about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 300g pasta (fusilli or penne)
- 100g salami, sliced
- 100g mozzarella, cubed
- 1/2 cup olives, pitted
- 1/2 cup roasted red peppers, sliced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the 300g of pasta (fusilli or penne) and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes.
- While the pasta is cooking, prepare the other ingredients. Slice the 100g of salami into thin strips or bite-sized pieces, and cube the 100g of mozzarella cheese into small cubes.
- Once the pasta is cooked, drain it in a colander and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process. This will also help to cool the pasta down for the salad.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, sliced salami, cubed mozzarella, 1/2 cup of pitted olives, and 1/2 cup of sliced roasted red peppers. Gently toss the ingredients together to ensure they are evenly distributed.
- In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup of olive oil, 1 tablespoon of red wine vinegar, and a pinch of salt and pepper to create a dressing for the salad.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss everything together until the pasta and ingredients are well coated with the dressing.
- Adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if desired, and give the salad another gentle toss.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the salad to an airtight container, and refrigerate for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Before serving, give the salad a final toss and taste for seasoning. Serve chilled or at room temperature as a delicious Italian antipasti deli pasta salad.
Tips
- Cook Pasta to Perfection: Ensure your pasta is al dente by following package instructions and testing a piece a minute before the suggested cooking time.
- Cool Down Quickly: Rinse pasta with cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent it from becoming mushy.
- Ingredient Quality Matters: Use high-quality salami, fresh mozzarella, and good olive oil for the best flavor.
- Marinate for Maximum Flavor: Let the salad rest in the refrigerator for at least 10-15 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld together.
- Customize Your Salad: Feel free to add other Italian deli ingredients like artichoke hearts, sun-dried tomatoes, or fresh basil.
- Make Ahead Friendly: This salad tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep or potlucks.
- Serve Temperature Tip: While delicious chilled, letting the salad sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving can enhance its flavors.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 30mg
