Authentic Pasta Salad

A refreshing pasta salad is perfect for warm days and gatherings with friends. Packed with fresh veggies and a tangy dressing, it’s a simple dish that’s both flavorful and satisfying.

Cooking Hints

Use pasta shapes that hold dressing well, like rotini or penne.
Rinse the cooked pasta with cold water to stop cooking and keep it from sticking.
Let the salad chill for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld.

Ingredients 0/9

1 (16 ounce) package tricolor rotini pasta 1 ½ cups Italian-style salad dressing ½ cup diced pepperoni ½ cup diced salami ½ cup diced Cheddar cheese ½ cup diced Monterey Jack cheese ½ cup crumbled feta cheese 12 cherry tomatoes, halved ½ medium cucumber, diced

Why This Dish Is So Satisfying

Bright, fresh, and full of vibrant flavors that please every palate. It combines tender pasta with crisp vegetables and a tangy dressing, making it a perfect side or main. It’s easy to customize and always a crowd-pleaser at gatherings.

Step 1

Boil a big pot of salted water. Once it’s bubbling, add the rotini and cook until it’s tender but still has a little bite—about 8 minutes. Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop it from cooking further and getting mushy. Let it drain well, then toss it into a large bowl.

Step 2

Add the salad dressing along with the pepperoni, salami, and all the cheeses—Cheddar, Monterey Jack, and feta. Throw in the black olives, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion too. Give everything a good mix so all the flavors come together.

Step 3

Cover the bowl and pop it in the fridge for at least an hour. This lets the flavors meld and makes the salad taste even better when you’re ready to serve.

people cooked this recipe

By Michael Davis

Michael enjoys creating straightforward meals that are easy to prepare at home.

Best Ways To Serve

Serve chilled alongside grilled meats or as part of a picnic spread. Adding some fresh herbs or a sprinkle of cheese on top can enhance the taste. It also pairs nicely with crusty bread or a light soup.

How To Freeze This Dish

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Stir the salad before serving again, and if it seems dry, add a splash of olive oil or dressing to refresh the flavors. Avoid freezing, as the texture can change.