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The best Italian pasta salad uses fresh, vibrant ingredients to create great flavor. First, let’s talk about pasta. I love using rotini pasta. Its shape holds onto dressing and flavors really well. You can also use penne or fusilli if you prefer.

Best Italian Pasta Salad

Make your summer gatherings unforgettable with the Best Italian Pasta Salad! This refreshing dish is a delightful mix of rotini pasta, vibrant veggies, savory mozzarella, and a tangy dressing that will impress your guests every time. Follow my easy step-by-step recipe to create a colorful salad that’s perfect for picnics and barbecues. Click through now to discover the full recipe and tips for exciting variations!
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Ingredients
  

12 oz rotini pasta

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup cucumber, diced

1 bell pepper (red or orange), diced

½ cup red onion, finely chopped

½ cup black olives, sliced

1 cup mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine)

½ cup Italian salami, diced

¼ cup fresh basil leaves, torn

½ cup olive oil

¼ cup balsamic vinegar

1 teaspoon dried oregano

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

Begin by cooking the rotini pasta. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.

    In a large mixing bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, black olives, mozzarella balls, salami, and torn basil leaves.

      In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined.

        Add the cooled rotini pasta to the mixing bowl with the vegetables and cheese. Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and gently toss until everything is well coated.

          Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

            Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 45 minutes | Serves 6-8

                - Presentation Tips: Serve in a large, colorful bowl garnished with extra fresh basil leaves on top. For an added touch, drizzle with a bit more olive oil before serving. You can also layer some of the ingredients in a mason jar for a beautiful individual serving option.