This perfect Pasta Salad is my favorite summer side dish, but it is also delicious all year. It’s so easy to make, and it’s always a success at potlucks, barbecues, and parties. It also makes an excellent workday lunch. Pasta Salad was one of the first dishes I learnt to make. I guess the major reason I tried pasta salad so early on was because it is so simple. To cooked pasta, add your favorite veggies, fruits, spices, and meats (if wanted), mix everything together, refrigerate for a few minutes, and voilà! All year long, you have the ideal side or main dish for every meal. A delectable Pasta Salad is wonderful for entertaining since it can be made ahead of time and refrigerated, and I think it becomes even better when it’s all left to mix for a bit.
Pasta Salad Ingredients:
- 1 pound uncooked pasta – I like rotini!
- 3 cups cherry tomatoes, cut in half
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese balls, cut in half
- 1 lb. salami or summer sausage, cut into cubes
- 3/4 cup kalamata olives, sliced
- 3/4 cup pepperoncini (optional, but do it)
- 1/2 cup sliced red onion
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped