This Creamy Italian Pasta Salad is a delicious and vibrant side dish perfect for warm-weather gatherings or as a make-ahead meal for the week. Packed with flavorful ingredients like salami, mozzarella, and a homemade creamy Italian dressing, it’s a crowd-pleaser that pairs perfectly with summer grilling.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Creamy Italian Dressing:

1 cup homemade mayo
2 tsp Dijon mustard
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp red pepper flakes
3 tsp Italian seasoning
1 tsp kosher salt
1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper (plus more for serving)
3 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 1 1/2 lemons)
3 tbsp white wine vinegar

For the Pasta Salad:

12 oz rotini or fusilli pasta (cooked according to package directions, gluten-free pasta optional)
1 cup diced red bell pepper (about 1 small pepper)
1/2 cup finely diced shallot (about 1 large shallot)
1/2 cup sliced black olives
1 cup diced uncured salami
1 cup diced mozzarella (omit for dairy-free)
1/4 cup finely chopped parsley
1/2 cup thinly sliced basil leaves
Kosher salt to taste

Directions

Make the Dressing:
- Combine mayo, mustard, garlic, red pepper flakes, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, lemon juice, and white wine vinegar in a blender or use an immersion blender.
- Blend until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
Assemble the Pasta Salad:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, bell pepper, shallot, olives, salami, mozzarella, parsley, and basil.
- Pour the creamy Italian dressing over the pasta and toss until well-coated. Add salt to taste.
- Cover and refrigerate until chilled.

Note: Pasta salad can be stored in the refrigerator for 2–3 days. If preparing ahead, make the dressing and toss it with the other ingredients on the day of serving to avoid the pasta soaking up too much dressing.

Nutrients

Calories: 485
Carbohydrates: 38 g
Protein: 13 g
Fat: 31 g
Saturated Fat: 7 g
Cholesterol: 34 mg
Sodium: 1032 mg
Potassium: 303 mg
Fiber: 3 g
Sugar: 4 g
Vitamin A: 1056 IU
Vitamin C: 30 mg
Calcium: 118 mg
Iron: 2 mg

Enjoy this refreshing and creamy Italian pasta salad at your next gathering or as a simple, flavorful meal!

Why This Pasta Salad is a Must-Try

A Balance of Flavors and Textures

The Creamy Italian Pasta Salad excels in its harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The creamy dressing delivers a tangy richness that coats every piece of pasta, while the salami adds a savory, slightly smoky taste. Fresh basil and parsley bring a burst of herbaceous freshness, and the red bell peppers provide a crisp, sweet crunch. The addition of mozzarella contributes a soft, creamy texture that perfectly complements the chewy pasta.

Versatile and Adaptable

This recipe is highly adaptable, making it suitable for various dietary needs and preferences. Whether you want to make it gluten-free, dairy-free, or vegetarian, simple substitutions like gluten-free pasta, vegan mozzarella, or additional vegetables ensure that everyone can enjoy this dish.

Health Benefits of Creamy Italian Pasta Salad

Rich in Nutrients

While indulgent, this pasta salad offers plenty of nutrients. The red bell peppers and fresh herbs provide vitamins A and C, which support immune health and skin vitality. The olives contribute heart-healthy fats, and the garlic in the dressing offers antioxidant properties.

Satisfying and Energy-Packed

The balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins makes this dish both satisfying and energizing. The pasta provides complex carbs for sustained energy, while the salami and mozzarella deliver protein to keep you feeling full. The dressing, made with olive oil and mayonnaise, adds healthy fats that help absorb fat-soluble vitamins.

Moderation-Friendly

Although creamy, this pasta salad can fit into a balanced diet. Opting for whole-grain or gluten-free pasta, reducing the salami portion, or adding more vegetables can lower the calorie count while retaining the dish’s flavor and texture.

Perfect for Any Occasion

An Excellent Side Dish

The Creamy Italian Pasta Salad is a perfect side dish for summer grilling. It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats like chicken, steak, or fish, balancing the smoky flavors with its creamy tanginess. Its vibrant colors and fresh ingredients make it a visually appealing addition to any table.

Meal Prep Champion

This pasta salad is a fantastic option for meal prep. It stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it an easy grab-and-go meal. To maintain freshness, store the dressing separately and toss it with the salad just before serving.

A Potluck Favorite

Whether you’re attending a casual picnic or a more formal gathering, this pasta salad is a reliable potluck dish that will impress guests. Its flavors improve as it chills, allowing you to prepare it in advance without compromising taste.

Customizing the Creamy Italian Pasta Salad

One of the best aspects of this pasta salad is its adaptability. Here are a few ways to tailor the recipe to your preferences:

Make It Vegetarian

Omit the salami and add more plant-based proteins like chickpeas, white beans, or marinated tofu. Sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers can also provide an extra layer of flavor.

Go Dairy-Free

Substitute the mozzarella with a plant-based cheese or simply omit it. You can also add creamy elements like avocado or cashew cream for a dairy-free alternative to the dressing.

Add More Vegetables

Boost the nutritional content and flavor profile by including roasted zucchini, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, or artichoke hearts. These vegetables complement the existing ingredients while adding more variety.

Switch Up the Protein

For a heartier meal, consider adding grilled chicken, shrimp, or smoked turkey. These proteins enhance the dish without overpowering its Italian-inspired flavors.

Try Different Pasta Shapes

While rotini or fusilli are ideal for holding the creamy dressing, feel free to experiment with other pasta shapes like farfalle, penne, or orecchiette for a different texture.

Tips for Making the Best Pasta Salad

Cook the Pasta Perfectly: Al dente pasta holds its shape better and doesn’t become mushy when mixed with the dressing. Be sure to rinse the pasta under cold water after cooking to stop the cooking process and cool it down for the salad.
Use High-Quality Ingredients: Fresh herbs, good-quality olive oil, and premium salami or mozzarella can elevate the flavor of the dish significantly.
Let It Chill: Allowing the pasta salad to chill for at least an hour enhances the flavors as the ingredients meld together. Just be sure to toss it again before serving for even coating.
Taste and Adjust: Before serving, taste the salad and adjust the seasoning. A little extra salt, pepper, or lemon juice can brighten the flavors and balance the creaminess.
Serve It Fresh: If possible, assemble the salad close to serving time to maintain the crispness of the vegetables and the vibrancy of the dressing.

Why Creamy Italian Pasta Salad Stands Out

What sets this dish apart from other pasta salads is its homemade creamy Italian dressing. The blend of mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic, and Italian seasoning creates a dressing that’s tangy, slightly spicy, and luxuriously creamy. This dressing ties all the ingredients together, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.

Additionally, the combination of savory, sweet, and fresh elements makes this salad a standout. The mix of textures, from the soft mozzarella to the crunchy bell peppers, keeps each bite interesting. Whether you’re enjoying it on a warm summer day or prepping meals for the week, this pasta salad never disappoints.

Conclusion

Creamy Italian Pasta Salad is more than just a side dish—it’s a flavorful, nutritious, and versatile meal that fits a variety of occasions. Its creamy dressing, combined with fresh vegetables, savory salami, and al dente pasta, creates a dish that’s both comforting and refreshing. Perfect for barbecues, potlucks, or make-ahead meals, this salad offers endless opportunities for customization, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

By preparing this dish, you’re not only treating yourself to a delicious meal but also showcasing a recipe that celebrates bold flavors and wholesome ingredients. Try it today and discover how easy it is to bring Italian-inspired flair to your table with this creamy and vibrant pasta salad.

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