Best Italian Pasta Salad- Easy & Delicious Recipe

Craving a vibrant, flavorful side dish that’s perfect for any potluck, picnic, or weeknight meal? Look no further than this incredible Italian Pasta Salad! Bursting with fresh ingredients and a zesty dressing, it’s incredibly easy to make and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

• 12 ounces rotini, penne, or farfalle pasta
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced or finely diced
• 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, sliced (optional)
• 4 ounces fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), halved or quartered
• 4 ounces pepperoni, diced or mini pepperoni
• 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking and cool the pasta. Set aside.
2. While the pasta cooks, prepare your dressing. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, dried oregano, garlic powder, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, diced red bell pepper, sliced red onion, black olives, Kalamata olives (if using), mozzarella balls, diced pepperoni, fresh parsley, and fresh basil.
4. Pour the prepared dressing over the pasta mixture. Toss gently until all ingredients are evenly coated.
5. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed. For best flavor, cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or preferably 3-4 hours, to allow the flavors to meld.
6. Serve chilled and enjoy!