Classic Italian Pasta Salad (Meal Prep Friendly)

• •12 oz rotini or fusilli pasta, cooked al dente and cooled
• •1.5 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• •1 cup cucumber, English or regular, diced
• •1 cup bell pepper, green or red, diced
• •0.3 cup red onion, thinly sliced or finely diced
• •4 oz pepperoni, mini slices or regular, quartered
• •8 fresh mozzarella balls, small (bocconcini), halved
• •0.5 cup black olives, pitted, sliced
• •2 tablespoon parsley, fresh, chopped, for garnish
• •0.5 cup olive oil, extra virgin
• •0.3 cup red wine vinegar
• •2 cloves garlic, minced
• •1 teaspoon dried oregano
• •0.5 teaspoon dried basil
• •0.5 teaspoon granulated sugar, optional, for balance
• •0.5 teaspoon salt
• •0.3 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground

Instructions

1. 1

   Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking and cool it down. Set aside in a large mixing bowl.

2. 2

   While the pasta cooks, prepare the dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, granulated sugar (if using), salt, and black pepper until well combined.

3. 3

   Add the halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, diced bell pepper, thinly sliced red onion, pepperoni, halved fresh mozzarella balls, and sliced black olives to the bowl with the cooled pasta.

4. 4

   Pour the prepared dressing over the pasta and vegetable mixture. Toss gently but thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly coated.

5. 5

   Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or preferably 2-4 hours, to allow the flavors to meld. Toss again before serving.

6. 6

   Garnish with fresh chopped parsley just before serving.

Chef's Tips

• 💡**Al Dente Pasta is Key**: Ensure your pasta is cooked al dente (firm to the bite) so it doesn't get mushy when absorbing the dressing and chilling. Rinsing with cold water immediately after draining helps prevent overcooking and keeps the pasta from sticking.
• 💡**Flavor Development**: This salad tastes even better the next day! The flavors deepen and meld beautifully after chilling for several hours or overnight, making it ideal for meal prep.
• 💡**Customization**: Feel free to add other Italian deli meats like salami, grilled chicken, or different cheeses. Artichoke hearts or sun-dried tomatoes are also great additions.
• 💡**Make Ahead**: Store the pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, making it perfect for grab-and-go lunches throughout the week.
• 💡**Dressing Adjustment**: Taste the dressing before adding it to the salad and adjust salt, pepper, or vinegar to your preference. A touch more sugar can balance the acidity if needed.