Deli-Style Pasta Salad: A Refreshing Medley of Flavors

As we gather around the table for family dinners or picnics, I find myself filled with gratitude for the little joys of life. Today, I’m excited to share a recipe that’s close to my heart: Deli-Style Pasta Salad. This dish brings back fond memories of summer get-togethers and is sure to be a hit in your home too. Its vibrant colors and diverse flavors make it anything but boring!!

Ingredients

Salad:

• 12 oz rotini pasta
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup diced cucumber
• 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
• 1/2 cup green bell pepper, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, cubed
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Dressing:

• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make Deli-Style Pasta Salad

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by cooking the rotini pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Veggies

While the pasta is cooking, prepare the vegetables. Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumbers, bell peppers, and red onion, and slice the black olives. Chop the fresh parsley.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, prepared vegetables, cubed mozzarella cheese, and chopped parsley. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is well coated.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the pasta salad for at least an hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve chilled and enjoy the burst of fresh, vibrant flavors!

Helpful Tips

• Cooking the Pasta: Be sure not to overcook the pasta; al dente is best for this salad to maintain a good texture.
• Chopping Veggies: Keep the vegetable pieces uniform in size for a more visually appealing salad.
• Chilling Time: If you’re in a rush, even 30 minutes in the fridge can make a difference, but an hour or more is ideal.

Substitutions and Variations

• Cheese: Swap the mozzarella for feta or cheddar for a different flavor profile.
• Veggies: Feel free to add or substitute other veggies like carrots, celery, or artichoke hearts.
• Protein: For a heartier salad, add diced ham, salami, or grilled chicken.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, this salad tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to develop.

What can I serve with this pasta salad?

This salad pairs well with grilled meats, sandwiches, or can be enjoyed as a stand-alone dish.

How long will this pasta salad keep in the fridge?

Stored in an airtight container, it will last for up to 3-4 days.

Storage Instructions

Keep your Deli-Style Pasta Salad fresh by storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s perfect for meal prep and can be enjoyed over several days.

More Relevant Recipes

If you loved this Deli-Style Pasta Salad, you might also enjoy:

• Shrimp and Smoked Sausage Grits: A savory Southern classic that’s perfect for any meal.
• Creamy Roasted Tomato Ricotta Pasta with Crispy Prosciutto: A rich and indulgent pasta dish that’s sure to impress.

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