Ultimate Pasta Salad: Fresh, Flavorful, and Easy to Make
This ultimate pasta salad is a fresh and flavorful delight, perfect for summer gatherings and easy to customize.
Equipment
- - Large pot
- - Large bowl
- Whisk
Ingredients
For the Salad
- 1 pound dried pasta choose fusilli, penne, rotini, or farfalle
- 1 cup sliced bell pepper adds sweet crunch
- 1 cup thinly sliced zucchini brings a fresh flavor
- 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes juicy bursts of sweetness
- 1/3 cup thinly sliced green onions adds mild onion flavor
- 1/4 cup sliced pepperoncini or banana peppers optional for a spicy kick
- 1 cup halved mixed olives
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese for a nutty finish
- 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls adds creamy richness
- 1/3 cup fresh parsley or basil optional for brightness
For the Homemade Dressing
- 1/3 cup red wine vinegar or white/champagne vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt adjust to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 2 to 3 tablespoons juice from pepperoncini jar optional for extra tang
- 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil for richness
Instructions
How to Make Pasta Salad
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add pasta and cook until tender, about 6 to 10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- In a large bowl, whisk together vinegar, salt, pepper, oregano, and olive oil until combined. If using, mix in pepperoncini juice.
- Add the drained pasta to the bowl and stir until well coated.
- Gently fold in bell pepper, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, green onions, pepperoncini (if using), olives, parmesan, mozzarella, and herbs. Adjust seasoning.
- Cover the pasta salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Notes
Optional: Garnish with additional fresh herbs for color. Ensure to taste and adjust seasoning before serving.