If you’re looking for a delicious, vibrant, and easy-to-make pasta salad, this Easy Italian Antipasto Pasta Salad is the perfect dish for you! Packed with fresh vegetables, savory sliced salami, cheese, and tangy dressing, this salad is bursting with flavors reminiscent of a classic Italian antipasto platter.
Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, looking for a quick meal prep option, or need a flavorful side dish, this antipasto pasta salad is a must-try! With a delightful balance of textures and tastes, it’s one of the best easy pasta salad recipes you’ll ever make.
What is Antipasto?
Antipasto (plural: antipasti) is an Italian appetizer that typically includes a variety of cured meats, cheeses, olives, marinated vegetables, and sometimes seafood. It’s a classic starter in Italian cuisine, designed to awaken the appetite with a combination of bold flavors.
When you take those delicious elements and toss them into pasta salad, you get a hearty, satisfying, and utterly yummy salad that works as a side dish or a main meal.
Why You’ll Love This Antipasto Pasta Salad
✔ Bursting with Italian Flavors – With sliced salami, mozzarella, and olives, this salad tastes just like a traditional antipasto platter.
✔ Easy to Make – A quick pasta salad recipe that comes together in just 20 minutes.
✔ Perfect for Any Occasion – Great for picnics, BBQs, meal prep, or potlucks.
✔ Customizable – You can switch up the ingredients based on your preference or dietary needs.
Ingredients for Easy Italian Antipasto Pasta Salad
For the Salad:
- 12 oz pasta (rotini, penne, or bowtie)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup mozzarella balls (or diced mozzarella)
- ¾ cup sliced salami, chopped into bite-sized pieces
- ½ cup black olives, sliced
- ½ cup green olives, sliced
- ½ cup roasted red peppers, chopped
- ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup pepperoncini peppers, sliced (optional)
- ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
For the Italian Dressing:
- ⅓ cup olive oil
- 3 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
How to Make Antipasto Pasta Salad
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the pasta al dente according to package instructions.
- Drain and rinse the pasta with cold water to stop cooking and cool it down.
Step 2: Prepare the Ingredients
- While the pasta is cooking, chop and prepare all your ingredients – slice the salami, olives, onions, peppers, and fresh basil.
- Halve the cherry tomatoes and mozzarella balls for better distribution of flavors.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
- In a small mixing bowl or mason jar, combine the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Whisk or shake until well combined.
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sliced salami, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, olives, roasted red peppers, red onion, and basil.
- Pour the Italian dressing over the salad and toss well to coat everything evenly.
Step 5: Chill & Serve
- For the best flavor, cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with extra fresh basil and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired.
Tips for the Best Antipasto Pasta Salad
✔ Use High-Quality Ingredients – Fresh mozzarella, good-quality olive oil, and authentic Italian salami make all the difference!
✔ Don’t Overcook the Pasta – Keep it al dente so it holds up well in the salad.
✔ Let It Chill – The flavors blend beautifully after chilling for 30 minutes to an hour.
✔ Make It Ahead – This salad tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep.
Variations and Substitutions
One of the best things about antipasto pasta salad is how versatile it is! Here are a few fun ways to switch things up:
Make It Vegetarian
- Skip the salami and add marinated artichokes or chickpeas for plant-based protein.
Gluten-Free Option
- Use gluten-free pasta like chickpea or brown rice pasta.
Extra Protein Boost
- Add grilled chicken, tuna, or hard-boiled eggs for more protein.
Different Cheese Options
- Swap mozzarella for feta, Parmesan, or provolone for a new flavor twist.
What to Serve with Antipasto Pasta Salad
This Italian-inspired salad is incredibly versatile and can be served as a standalone meal or side dish. Here are a few pairing ideas:
🥖 Garlic Bread – A crispy side to soak up the dressing.
🥗 Caprese Salad – A light and refreshing Italian salad.
🍷 Glass of Red Wine – Complements the bold antipasto flavors.
🍗 Grilled Chicken or Steak – For a hearty meal.
How to Store Antipasto Pasta Salad
🔹 Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
🔹 Meal Prep Tip: Keep the dressing separate until ready to serve for the freshest taste.
🔹 Freezing: Not recommended as the pasta and fresh ingredients don’t freeze well.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?
Yes! This salad tastes even better after sitting for a few hours or overnight in the fridge.
2. Can I use store-bought dressing?
Of course! If you’re in a hurry, a good-quality Italian vinaigrette will work just fine.
3. What type of pasta is best for antipasto pasta salad?
Short pasta like rotini, penne, or bowtie works best as it holds the dressing and ingredients well.
4. Is antipasto pasta salad served warm or cold?
It’s best served chilled or at room temperature.
5. Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes! Just omit the cheese or use a vegan cheese alternative.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Italian Antipasto Pasta Salad is a delicious, vibrant, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With a medley of bold Italian flavors, this pasta salad is sure to be a hit at your next gathering, meal prep, or potluck.
Try this antipasto pasta salad recipe today and enjoy a taste of Italy in every bite! 🍝🇮🇹
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