Description
A delightful and colorful pasta salad that combines fresh ingredients, creamy dressing, and family-friendly flavors, perfect for gatherings or weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
- 1 cup homemade mayonnaise
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 4 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 3 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 3 tablespoons white wine vinegar
- 12 ounces rotini or fusilli pasta (cooked according to package directions)
- 1 cup diced small red bell pepper (about 1 small pepper)
- 1/2 cup finely diced shallot (about 1 large shallot)
- 1/2 cup sliced black olives
- 1 cup diced hard uncured salami
- 1 cup diced mozzarella
- 1/4 cup finely chopped parsley
- 1/2 cup thinly sliced basil leaves
- Kosher salt (to taste)
Instructions
- Whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, Italian seasoning, kosher salt, black pepper, lemon juice, and white wine vinegar in a medium bowl until smooth.
- Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse it under cold water to cool.
- Combine cooked pasta, red bell pepper, shallot, black olives, salami, mozzarella, parsley, and basil in a large mixing bowl.
- Pour the creamy dressing over the salad and toss gently until everything is well-coated.
- Adjust seasonings with salt and pepper to taste. Chill before serving if desired. Serve cold or at room temperature.
Notes
For best results, let the salad chill for at least an hour before serving to meld flavors. Add fresh basil right before serving to keep its brightness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Italian