Introduction
This delicious rotini pasta salad is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a summer barbecue, a picnic, or a simple family dinner. Packed with vibrant ingredients and a zesty dressing, this dish not only looks appealing but also bursts with flavors that will please any palate. Easy to prepare and perfect for meal prep, it can be made ahead of time, allowing for the tastes to meld beautifully.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 12 ounces rotini pasta
– 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)
– 1 cup marinated artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1 cup fresh mozzarella pearls
– 1 cup hard salami, cubed
– 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped
– 1 cup bell peppers, diced (use a mix of colors)
– 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes (+ chilling time)
Yield: Serves 6-8 people
This pasta salad is sure to become a favorite in your household! With its combination of textures and robust flavors, it’s a dish that can easily be served as a main course or a side dish. Enjoy!
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 and shake vigorously for about 30 seconds until emulsified. If using a 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 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, chopped basil, diced bell peppers, and grated Parmesan cheese.
Add the Dressing
Pour the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients. Toss gently to ensure all components are evenly coated with the dressing.
Chill and Serve
Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Before serving, give the salad a gentle toss and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Notes
Feel free to adjust the level of red pepper flakes according to your heat preference. Ensure that the pasta is fully cooled before mixing with the other ingredients to maintain the freshness of vegetables and cheese. This salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Cook techniques
Preparing the Dressing
In this step, combine all liquid ingredients and seasonings to create a flavorful dressing. You can use a jar for shaking or a bowl for whisking, ensuring emulsification for a smooth consistency.
Cooking the Pasta
Bring salted water to a rolling boil and add the rotini pasta. Follow package instructions for cooking time until the pasta is al dente. This ensures a firm texture that holds up well in the salad.
Assembling the Salad
In a large mixing bowl, combine all solid salad ingredients. Make sure to include cooled pasta for the best texture and to prevent wilting of fresh ingredients.
Adding the Dressing
Pour the prepared dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently. This step is crucial for ensuring that every ingredient is coated evenly with the dressing for balanced flavor.
Chilling the Salad
Cover the assembled salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling allows the flavors to meld and enhances the overall taste of the salad.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute rotini with other pasta types such as fusilli or penne, but ensure they are similar in size for even mixing.
Is there a substitute for red wine vinegar?
You can use apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar as alternatives if red wine vinegar is unavailable.
How long can I store the salad?
The salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to toss before serving to refresh the ingredients.
Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add any vegetables you enjoy, such as cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, or olives, for added flavor and nutrition.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this salad holds up well for meal prep. Prepare it in advance and store it in individual portions for convenient meals throughout the week.
Conclusion
This vibrant and flavorful rotini pasta salad is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a picnic, a potluck, or a simple family dinner. The combination of marinated artichokes, sun-dried tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and salami, all coated in a tangy homemade dressing, creates a delightful dish that is sure to please. By allowing the salad to chill, the flavors meld beautifully, making each bite refreshing and satisfying.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Vegetable Variations
Add olives, cherry tomatoes, or cucumbers for extra crunch and flavor.
Protein Alternatives
Substitute hard salami with diced chicken breast, grilled shrimp, or chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
Cheese Combos
Experiment with feta cheese, goat cheese, or cheddar for different flavor profiles.
Pasta Alternatives
Try using penne, fusilli, or farfalle pasta to switch up the texture.
Herb Infusions
Incorporate fresh herbs such as parsley, tarragon, or oregano for added freshness.
Additional Dressings
Swap the dressing for a pesto or yogurt-based dressing for a creamier texture.
