Italian Pasta Salad with Homemade Italian Dressing Recipe

Introduction

This Italian Pasta Salad with Homemade Italian Dressing is a vibrant, flavorful dish perfect for warm days or casual gatherings. Combining tender pasta, spicy salami, fresh vegetables, and a tangy dressing, it’s both satisfying and refreshing.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1/4 cup red or white wine vinegar (red preferred)
• 1 1/2 tbsp freshly grated parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp sugar (any)
• 1 large garlic clove, minced
• 1/2 tsp dried basil
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 1/4 tsp dried parsley
• 1/2 tsp dried chilli flakes (red pepper flakes) (optional)
• 3/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 300g (10oz) spiral pasta or pasta of choice
• 180g (6oz) thick sliced salami, cut into 2.5cm (1″) batons (spicy recommended)
• 200g (7oz) baby bocconcini, halved
• 1 red capsicum (bell pepper), cut into 3cm strips
• 250g (8oz) whole olives (Sicilian and pitted black suggested)
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved (about 1.5 Australian punnets)
• 1 cup tightly packed fresh basil leaves

Instructions

1. Step 1: Place the olive oil, red or white wine vinegar, parmesan cheese, sugar, minced garlic, dried basil, oregano, parsley, chilli flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper into a jar. Shake well to combine the dressing thoroughly.
2. Step 2: Cook the pasta according to the packet instructions, but reduce the cooking time by one minute. Drain the pasta in a colander and rinse under cold water to stop further cooking. Shake off excess water and transfer the pasta to a large bowl.
3. Step 3: Add the salami batons, halved bocconcini, red capsicum strips, olives, cherry tomatoes, and fresh basil leaves to the bowl with the pasta.
4. Step 4: Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently to combine everything evenly. Serve the pasta salad at room temperature.
5. Step 5 (Make Ahead Pro Tip): Before draining the cooked pasta, scoop out a mug of the cooking water. Add 3 tablespoons of this water to the dressing jar and shake well. Use this slightly diluted dressing to toss the pasta salad as above, reserving 3 tablespoons of dressing to freshen the salad on subsequent days.
6. Step 6 (Freshen Up): To refresh leftovers, bring the pasta salad to room temperature or warm gently in the microwave. Toss with the reserved dressing before serving to restore moisture and flavor.

Tips & Variations

• For extra zing, add a splash of lemon juice to the dressing just before serving.
• Swap salami for ham or grilled chicken for a different protein option.
• Use a mix of olives such as Kalamata and green for varied flavor and color.
• Adding toasted pine nuts or chopped walnuts adds a lovely crunch.
• If you prefer a milder salad, omit the chilli flakes.

Storage

Store the pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Before eating leftovers, allow the salad to come to room temperature or gently warm it in the microwave. Toss with the reserved dressing or a little extra to restore moisture and freshness.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use different types of pasta for this salad?

Yes, you can use any pasta shape you like. Spiral pasta is traditional for its ability to hold dressing well, but penne, fusilli, or farfalle work just as nicely.

Is it necessary to rinse the pasta after cooking?

Rinsing the pasta with cold water stops it from overcooking and cools it quickly for this cold pasta salad. It also helps prevent the pasta from sticking together.