Italian Pasta Salad

Recipe Ingredients You’ll Need

• Cheese: Mozzarella and shredded Parmesan cheese make an appearance in this salad. I like to buy a big block of mozzarella cheese and cut it into chunks. You can use fresh mozzarella but I wouldn’t add it into the salad until you are ready to serve it. Other ideas that work include sharp cheddar, gouda, pepper jack or provolone. 
• Protein: The salami and pepperoni add protein to this salad. You can leave it out if you want to make this salad vegetarian or use a different cold cut in its place. I have also added grilled chicken in its place which is a nice addition.
• Vegetables: You can add whatever vegetables you like to this salad. I used roasted red pepper, artichokes, red onion, tomatoes and pepperonicins. I also really like olives, bell peppers and green beans. 
• Chickpeas: Beans are a nice addition to this easy pasta salad. I used chickpeas but you can also use white beans or kidney beans.
• Pasta: I like to use a medium sized pasta for this salad. You can use a slightly larger pasta variety or try something like a tortellini. 
• Fresh Herbs: In the summer fresh herbs take salads to the next level. I like using fresh basil and parsley to this side dish. 
• Dressing: Homemade salad dressings are a nice way to control the ingredients in the salad. You will like this light dressing. You can also buy your favorite Italian dressing from the store and use that. 

For exact ingredient amounts and instructions, see the full recipe card below. 

How to Make an Italian Pasta Salad

Step 1: Cook Pasta: Cook the pasta according to package. Remove, drain and run cold water over it. Set aside.

Step 2: Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl combine the pasta, chickpeas, salami, pepperoni, cherry tomatoes, roasted red peppers, artichokes, red onion, pepperoncinis, fresh basil, fresh parsley, mozzarella cheese and parmesan cheese. Gently toss to combine.

Step 3: Create Dressing: In a mason jar or salad dressing container combine the extra virgin olive oil, white wine vinegar, honey, lemon juice, parmesan cheese, garlic, parsley, basil, oregano, crushed red pepper and salt and pepper. Whisk or shake to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning.

Step 4: Add Dressing to Salads: Pour the dressing over the salad and mix well to combine. Ideally refrigerate 2 hours before serving. Enjoy!

Ways to Modify this Pasta Salad

• Beans: I added chickpeas to this salad but you could swap them for any beans. I particularly like black beans or white beans.
• Cheese: You can add whatever cheese you like. Some favorites are pepper jack, Monterrey jack, goat cheese or feta cheese.
• Vegetables: This pasta salad works great with a lot of crunchy veggies. Some other nice additions are bell peppers, radish, carrots, celery or sun-dried tomatoes.
• Herbs: Fresh herbs take this salad to the next level. Some other herbs you can add are oregano, thyme and dill.