Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Italian Pasta Salad with Salami is a bold, flavorful, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for potlucks, picnics, or weeknight dinners. Packed with savory salami, tender pasta, crunchy vegetables, and a zesty Italian dressing, this salad brings together the best of Italian deli flavors in every bite. It’s easy to make ahead, serves a crowd, and gets better as it sits.

ingredients

Best Italian Pasta Salad With Salami Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

rotini or penne pastasalami (cubed or sliced)mozzarella cheese (cubed or pearl)grape or cherry tomatoes (halved)red onion (thinly sliced)black olives (sliced)pepperoncini (sliced)red bell pepper (diced)fresh parsley (chopped)Italian dressing (store-bought or homemade)parmesan cheese (optional)salt and pepper

directions

Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.

In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, salami, mozzarella, tomatoes, red onion, black olives, pepperoncini, and red bell pepper.

Drizzle with Italian dressing and toss until everything is well coated.

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add chopped parsley and toss again.

Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Sprinkle with grated parmesan cheese just before serving, if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 8 servings.Preparation time: 15 minutesCooking time: 10 minutesChilling time: 30 minutesTotal time: 55 minutes

Variations

Swap salami for pepperoni or prosciutto for a different cured meat flavor.

Use tortellini instead of traditional pasta for a heartier twist.

Add artichoke hearts or sun-dried tomatoes for more depth.

Include cubed provolone for an extra cheesy kick.

Make it vegetarian by omitting the salami and adding chickpeas.

storage/reheating

Store the pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.It’s best served cold or at room temperature. Avoid reheating as it can affect the texture of the cheese and vegetables.

FAQs

Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?

Yes, it’s actually better when made ahead so the flavors can develop. Just give it a good stir before serving.

What type of pasta works best?

Rotini, penne, or farfalle hold the dressing well and don’t get soggy easily.

Can I use bottled Italian dressing?

Absolutely, but a homemade version with olive oil, vinegar, and Italian herbs gives it a fresher taste.

Is this pasta salad spicy?

It has a mild kick from pepperoncini, but you can leave them out if you prefer it milder.

Can I freeze Italian pasta salad?

Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the pasta and vegetables will suffer.

Can I add more vegetables?

Yes! Cucumbers, zucchini, or broccoli florets are great additions.

What’s the best salami to use?

Use a good-quality Genoa or hard salami for rich flavor and texture.

How do I prevent the pasta from drying out?

Toss it with a bit of dressing while still warm, then add more after chilling if needed.

Do I have to chill it?

Chilling enhances flavor but if you’re short on time, it can be served right after mixing.

Can I serve this as a main dish?

Yes, it’s hearty enough to serve as a light main course, especially with a side of bread.

Conclusion

This Best Italian Pasta Salad with Salami is the ultimate crowd-pleaser that brings together the bold flavors of Italy in one refreshing dish. Easy to prepare and endlessly customizable, it’s the perfect go-to for summer gatherings or meal prep. Give it a try and enjoy every flavorful forkful!