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Spicy Italian Pasta Salad

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Spicy Italian Pasta Salad is a bold and refreshing dish loaded with tender pasta, savory meats, crisp vegetables, cheese, and zesty Italian dressing with a spicy kick. Perfect for potlucks, picnics, barbecues, or meal prep, this chilled pasta salad is packed with vibrant flavor.

Ingredients

  • 12 ounces rotini or penne pasta
  • 1 cup salami or pepperoni, sliced
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, cubed
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup black olives
  • 1/2 cup banana peppers
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup Italian dressing
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
  2. Drain and rinse the pasta under cold water to cool completely.
  3. Transfer the pasta to a large mixing bowl.
  4. Add the salami or pepperoni, mozzarella cheese, cherry tomatoes, red onion, olives, banana peppers, and bell peppers.
  5. In a small bowl, whisk together the Italian dressing, red pepper flakes, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
  6. Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss until evenly coated.
  7. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley.
  8. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving for the best flavor.

Notes

  • Rotini and penne hold the dressing especially well.
  • Use spicy soppressata for extra heat and bold flavor.
  • Artichoke hearts or sun-dried tomatoes make great additions.
  • Reserve a little extra dressing to refresh the salad before serving.
  • Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Serve chilled for the best texture and flavor.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/spicy-italian-pasta-salad/