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+ servings
Pasta Salad

Delicious Pasta Salad with Salami and Veggies Bliss

A vibrant and colorful pasta salad featuring salami and fresh vegetables, perfect for summer gatherings.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Appetizers
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 8 ounces Fusilli Pasta The base of the pasta salad; provides structure and holds the dressing well.
  • 1 cup Mini Mozzarella Balls Adds a creamy texture and protein; can substitute with halved fresh mozzarella if needed.
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes Bring sweetness and juiciness; regular or plum tomatoes can also be used.
  • 0.5 cup Diced Red Onion Adds a sharp flavor and a nice crunch; can be omitted or replaced with green onion for a milder taste.
  • 1 cup Cucumber Offers a refreshing crunch; any variety works, with English cucumbers being preferred.
  • 0.5 cup Black Olives Contributes a salty bite; feel free to swap with green olives or kalamata, or omit entirely.
  • 1 cup Diced Red Bell Pepper Sweet and crunchy, brightening up the salad; other colored peppers can be used for variety.
  • 1 cup Diced Salami Adds savory protein and depth; swap it for bacon or tuna, or leave it out for a vegetarian option.
  • 0.25 cup Chopped Parsley Enhances freshness; fresh basil or cilantro can be used as alternatives.
For the Dressing
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme Imparts herbal flavors; adjust according to taste or omit if preferred.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano Imparts herbal flavors; adjust according to taste or omit if preferred.
  • 3 tablespoons Lemon Juice Provides brightness and acidity; use fresh juice for the best flavor.
  • 0.25 cup Olive Oil Serves as the base of your salad dressing; avocado oil is a good substitute.
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard Adds depth and creaminess to the dressing; whole grain mustard can also work well.
  • 1 tablespoon Maple Syrup Introduces a hint of sweetness; honey is a perfect alternative.
  • Black Pepper For seasoning; adjust according to your liking.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Colander
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Jar or bowl for dressing

Method
 

Cooking and Preparation Steps
  1. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add 8 ounces of fusilli pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse it under cold water for about 1 minute to stop the cooking process and cool it down. Set aside to dry completely in the colander.
  2. In a small jar or bowl, combine 1 teaspoon dried thyme, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 3 tablespoons lemon juice, 0.25 cup olive oil, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon maple syrup, and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Seal the jar tightly or whisk vigorously in the bowl for about 30 seconds until the dressing is well combined and emulsified into a creamy consistency.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled fusilli pasta along with 1 cup of mini mozzarella balls, 1 cup diced cherry tomatoes, 0.5 cup diced red onion, 1 cup diced cucumber, 0.5 cup black olives, 1 cup diced red bell pepper, 1 cup diced salami, and 0.25 cup chopped parsley. Using a spoon, gently stir the mixture together for about 1-2 minutes until all the colorful ingredients are evenly distributed.
  4. Pour the prepared dressing over the mixed ingredients and gently toss everything together for another 1-2 minutes to coat with the dressing.
  5. Cover the mixing bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the pasta salad into an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to let the flavors meld beautifully.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 15gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 250IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Add dressing just before serving to prevent sogginess. Adjust flavors to personal preferences.

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