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Italian Pasta Salad

Italian Pasta Salad

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This Italian Pasta Salad is a hearty and colorful dish, packed with tender fusilli pasta, fresh vegetables, tangy olives, and a blend of cheeses, all tossed in a zesty homemade Italian dressing. It’s perfect as a side for summer picnics, potlucks, or as a satisfying light meal on its own.

  • Total Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients

For the Pasta Base
1 lb fusilli pasta
1 (15-oz.) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup thinly sliced mini sweet peppers
3/4 cup sliced pepperoncini peppers
3/4 cup pitted kalamata olives, halved

For the Cheese
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
3/4 cup small cubed provolone or mozzarella cheese

For the Greens
2–3 cups fresh baby spinach, roughly chopped

For the Dressing
1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
2 tablespoons pepperoncini brine (or fresh lemon juice)
3 tablespoons minced shallots
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 teaspoons dried oregano
2 teaspoons dried parsley
3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  • Cook the fusilli pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, rinse under cold water, and let cool.

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, mini sweet peppers, pepperoncini, and kalamata olives.

  • Add the grated Parmesan and cubed provolone or mozzarella to the pasta mixture.

  • Toss in the chopped baby spinach.

  • In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, pepperoncini brine (or lemon juice), minced shallots, garlic, dried oregano, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper until well combined.

  • Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss thoroughly to coat all ingredients evenly.

  • Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature

  • Author: Amanda
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6-8
  • Calories: Approximately 350 kcal per serving
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