Introduction
Bring a taste of Italy to your table with this delightful pasta salad, perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a light summer meal. Packed with vibrant ingredients and tossed in a flavorful dressing, it promises to please both family and friends.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Pasta Salad:
12 ounces rotini pasta
1 cup marinated artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
1 cup fresh mozzarella pearls
1 cup hard salami, cubed
1 cup bell peppers, diced (use a mix of colors)
1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
Dressing:
1/4 cup red wine vinegar
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon Italian herb seasoning
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes (including chilling time)
Yield: Serves 6-8 people
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Dressing
In a large jar or mixing bowl, combine red wine vinegar, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, Italian herb seasoning, and red pepper flakes. If using a jar, seal the lid tightly and shake vigorously for about 30 seconds until emulsified. If using a mixing bowl, whisk until well combined.
Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to cool.
Assemble the Salad
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, marinated artichoke hearts, sun-dried tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, cubed salami, diced bell peppers, and chopped fresh basil. Pour the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients. Toss everything together until well coated.
Add Parmesan and Chill
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the salad and give it a final toss. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
Serve
Before serving, give the salad a quick stir and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve chilled.
Notes
– For best flavor, allow the salad to chill for a few hours or overnight before serving.
– Feel free to customize the salad by adding additional vegetables or proteins according to your preference.
– Make sure to taste the salad before serving; you can adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, or additional red pepper flakes.
Cook techniques
Preparing the Dressing
In a large jar or mixing bowl, combine all dressing ingredients and emulsify by shaking or whisking until well blended.
Cooking the Pasta
Bring salted water to a boil, add rotini pasta, and cook until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
Assembling the Salad
In a large mixing bowl, combine cooled pasta and all salad ingredients. Pour dressing over the mixture and toss together until everything is well coated.
Chilling the Salad
Sprinkle grated Parmesan over the salad, toss again, cover, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld.
Serving the Salad
Before serving, stir the salad and adjust seasoning if needed, then serve chilled.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute rotini with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or fusilli.
How long can I store the pasta salad?
Pasta salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Can I add other ingredients to the salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables, beans, or proteins like chicken or shrimp to enhance the salad.
Is this salad gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta instead of traditional rotini.
What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?
If you want a dairy-free option, consider using nutritional yeast or a vegan parmesan substitute.
Conclusion
This delicious rotini pasta salad combines a medley of flavors, textures, and colors, making it a perfect dish for gatherings, picnics, or as a refreshing side. The combination of marinated artichoke hearts, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh mozzarella mixed with a zesty dressing elevates the pasta to a delightful culinary experience. Enjoy it as is or customize it with your favorite ingredients!
Vegetarian Variation
Substitute the hard salami with chickpeas or diced avocado for a hearty vegetarian option. You can also add slices of cucumber or zucchini for extra crunch.
Grilled Chicken Addition
Incorporate grilled chicken breast, diced into pieces, to add protein and make the salad more filling. This pairs well with the existing flavors.
Seafood Twist
Add cooked shrimp or crab meat for a seafood version. The lightness of seafood complements the salad’s richness beautifully.
Spicy Kick
For those who enjoy heat, consider adding jalapeños or diced spicy salami. This will enhance the flavor profile and give the salad a spicy kick.
Nuts and Seeds
Toss in some toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds for an added crunch and nutty flavor. This can also increase the salad’s nutritional value.
Different Pasta Shapes
Experiment with different pasta shapes such as penne, farfalle, or fusilli to change up the texture and appearance of the salad.
Herb Variations
Incorporate other fresh herbs such as parsley, dill, or oregano for varied flavor profiles. Each herb will bring a unique freshness to the salad.
Cheese Alternatives
Try different cheese options such as feta, goat cheese, or a sharp cheddar for a distinct taste. Each cheese will impart its unique flavor and creaminess.
