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Colorful zesty Italian pasta salad with cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, and mozzarella pearls in a large serving bowl.
Alyssa

Zesty Italian Pasta Salad

This is the BEST pasta salad with tangy pepperoncini, Genoa salami, and mozzarella pearls, perfect for gatherings.
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Prep Time 35 minutes
Cook Time 7 minutes
Chill Time 30 minutes
Total Time 42 minutes
Servings: 12 people
Course: Sides
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 300
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 recipe homemade Italian Dressing
  • 1 lb. rotini pasta
  • 3.5-4 oz. pepperoni, quartered (about ¾ cup)
  • 4 oz. sliced salami, quartered (about ¾ cup)
  • 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup black olives, drained and halved
  • 1 orange bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped
  • ½ cup finely diced red onion
  • 2 tablespoons chopped pepperoncini
  • 8 oz. fresh mozzarella pearls
  • Parmesan and parsley for garnish

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Italian Dressing according to the directions. Refrigerate until ready to use, then shake to recombine before using.
  2. Cook the pasta in salted water according to the package directions. Drain and add to a large serving bowl.
  3. Pour HALF of the Dressing over the warm pasta and toss to combine. Add the rest of the pasta salad ingredients and toss to combine.
  4. For best results, chill for at least 30 minutes before serving (up to 24 hours). Chill the remaining Dressing separately.
  5. When ready to serve, toss with the remaining Dressing and garnish with fresh parsley and Parmesan.

Notes

The pasta salad can be made 24 hours ahead for stress-free entertaining.