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Perfect Pasta Salad Dressing Recipe: A Complete Guide


  • Author: ELENE
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Description

This Italian pasta salad is loaded with fusilli, mozzarella balls, salami, olives, and a zesty homemade vinaigrette. Perfect for summer lunches, picnics, or potlucks.


Ingredients

For the Salad:

  • 1 lb. cooked fusilli pasta
  • 8 oz. mozzarella balls, halved
  • 4 oz. salami, quartered
  • 1 cup artichoke hearts, coarsely chopped
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • ½ cup pitted black olives, sliced

For the Dressing (Italian Vinaigrette):

  • ⅓ cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste


Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Cook fusilli to al dente according to package directions. Drain and let cool completely.
  2. Make the Dressing: In a jar, combine olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Shake well until emulsified.
  3. Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, toss together cooked pasta, mozzarella, salami, tomatoes, olives, and artichoke hearts.
  4. Add Dressing: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is well coated.
  5. Chill & Serve: Refrigerate for 30 minutes before serving or serve immediately if preferred.

Notes

This salad holds up well for meal prep. Swap salami for grilled chicken or chickpeas for a lighter variation. Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta as needed.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: Italian