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Zesty Italian Pasta Salad


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  • Author: jurgentukur
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A vibrant and tangy pasta salad, perfect for potlucks and summer gatherings.


Ingredients

  • 12 oz short pasta (penne, rotini, or fusilli)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
  • 1 cup cucumber (diced)
  • 1/2 cup red onion (thinly sliced)
  • 1/2 cup sliced pepperoncini or mild peppers
  • 1/2 cup diced mozzarella or feta
  • 1/2 cup sliced black olives
  • 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 3 tbsp red wine vinegar
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 garlic clove (minced)
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper


Instructions

  1. Boil the pasta in well-salted water for 9–10 minutes until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water or dunk into an ice bath to stop cooking.
  2. While the pasta cooks, chop the vegetables.
  3. Whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic, oregano, salt, and black pepper to make the dressing.
  4. Toss the pasta and chopped vegetables with the dressing.
  5. Chill for at least 30–60 minutes to let flavors meld.
  6. Adjust salt and acidity before serving.

Notes

This salad travels well and tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Boiling
  • Cuisine: Italian