Italian Deli Pasta Salad 

This vibrant and hearty pasta salad is a delightful medley of Italian deli favorites, combining savory meats, creamy mozzarella, and crisp vegetables, all tossed in a zesty homemade dressing. Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or as a satisfying side dish, it offers a refreshing twist on traditional pasta salads.

 Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 1 lb rotini pasta

• 3.5–4 oz pepperoni, quartered

• 4 oz sliced Genoa salami, quartered

• 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1 cup black olives, halved

• 1 orange bell pepper, chopped

• 1 green bell pepper, chopped

• ½ cup finely diced red onion

• 2 tbsp chopped pepperoncini

• 8 oz mozzarella pearls

• Freshly grated Parmesan, for garnish

• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

For the Dressing:

• ½ cup extra virgin olive oil

• ¼ cup red wine vinegar

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

• 2 tbsp finely grated Parmesan

• 1 tsp sugar

• 1 tsp dried parsley

• 1 tsp dried basil

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• ½ tsp garlic powder

• ½ tsp onion powder

• ½ tsp paprika

• Salt and pepper to taste

 Directions

1. Cook the Pasta: Boil the rotini in salted water according to package directions until al dente. Drain and place in a large mixing bowl.

2. Prepare the Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, grated Parmesan, sugar, dried parsley, dried basil, dried oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined.

3. Combine Salad Ingredients: While the pasta is still warm, pour half of the prepared dressing over it and toss to coat. Add the pepperoni, salami, cherry tomatoes, black olives, bell peppers, red onion, pepperoncini, and mozzarella pearls. Toss everything together gently until well mixed.

4. Chill: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (up to 24 hours) to allow the flavors to meld.

5. Serve: Before serving, toss the salad with the remaining dressing and garnish with freshly grated Parmesan and chopped parsley.

 Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: Approximately 385 kcal

• Protein: 12 g

• Carbohydrates: 26 g

• Fat: 25 g

• Saturated Fat: 7 g

• Cholesterol: 30 mg

• Sodium: 800 mg

• Potassium: 250 mg

• Fiber: 2 g

• Sugar: 3 g