Antipasto pasta salad combines the best of Italian flavors with a delightful twist. Perfect for picnics, gatherings, or quick dinners, this dish is as versatile as it is tasty. Here’s how to make an irresistible antipasto pasta salad that will impress everyone.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups rotini pasta (or any short pasta)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/2 cup mozzarella balls or cubes
- 1/2 cup salami, chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup roasted red peppers, chopped
- 1/4 cup artichoke hearts, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/3 cup Italian dressing
How to Prepare Antipasto Pasta Salad:
- Cook the Pasta Start by cooking the pasta according to package instructions. Ensure it is al dente, as it will absorb flavors better. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop further cooking.
- Prepare the Ingredients While the pasta cools, chop and slice all the fresh ingredients. This includes cherry tomatoes, olives, mozzarella, salami, red onion, roasted peppers, artichoke hearts, and fresh basil.
- Assemble the Salad In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the chopped ingredients. Add the mozzarella, salami, tomatoes, olives, roasted red peppers, artichoke hearts, and red onion. Toss everything together gently.
- Add the Dressing Pour the Italian dressing over the salad and mix until well-coated. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Allow the salad to sit for at least 15 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
- Garnish and Serve Just before serving, sprinkle fresh basil on top for an aromatic touch. This pasta salad is versatile and can be served chilled or at room temperature.
Tips for the Perfect Antipasto Pasta Salad
Choose Quality Ingredients For the best flavor, use high-quality ingredients. Fresh mozzarella and artisanal salami elevate the taste significantly.
Customize to Your Liking Feel free to add or substitute ingredients based on preference. Provolone cheese, marinated mushrooms, or even prosciutto are great additions.
Preparation Tip: For the best flavor, prepare the salad a few hours in advance. The flavors develop more over time, making it ideal for meal prep.
Conclusion
Antipasto pasta salad is a vibrant, flavor-packed dish that’s sure to be a hit. Quick to make and easily customizable, it’s perfect for any occasion. Try this recipe today and savor the combination of tangy, savory, and fresh flavors in every bite.