Italian Dressing Pasta Salad 

This Italian Dressing Pasta Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines the zest of homemade Italian dressing with a medley of fresh ingredients. It's perfect for potlucks, picnics, or as a side dish to any meal. The combination of salami, pepperoni, mozzarella, and pepperoncini, tossed with rotini pasta, creates a delightful blend of textures and tastes.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 1 pound rotini pasta

• 1/2 pound Genoa salami, diced

• 1/2 pound pepperoni, diced

• 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1 red bell pepper, chopped

• 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped

• 1/2 cup sliced black olives

• 1/2 cup sliced pepperoncini peppers

• 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 cup mozzarella pearlsings

For the Dressing:

• 1/2 cup red wine vinegar

• 1/2 cup olive oil

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

• 1 tablespoon dried oregano

• 1 tablespoon dried basil

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

• 1 teaspoon sugar

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

 Directions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.

2. Prepare the Dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together the red wine vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, oregano, basil, garlic powder, onion powder, red pepper flakes (if using), sugar, salt, and black pepper until well combined.

3. Assemble the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, salami, pepperoni, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, olives, pepperoncini, parsley, and mozzarella pearls.

4. Dress the Salad: Pour the prepared dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.

5. Chill and Serve: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Just before serving, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and additional fresh parsley if desired.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: Approximately 350 kcal

• Protein: 12g

• Carbohydrates: 30g

• Fat: 20g

• Fiber: 3g

• Sodium: 600mg