The mother of all PASTA SALADS, easy (my way) | That party pasta salad recipe that's always a hit!

pasta

🥗Healthier: whole grain pasta

💰Cheaper: pasta

Whole grain pasta is more nutritious.

feta cheese

🥗Healthier: low-fat feta

💰Cheaper: ricotta cheese

Low-fat feta reduces calories, ricotta is often cheaper.

Boil water in a pot and add salt.

Add 12 oz of rotini pasta to the boiling water and cook for 7 to 8 minutes until al dente.

Drain the pasta and spread it out on a large baking sheet to cool in a single layer.

Slice the tomatoes in half or into smaller chunks.

Cut the red bell pepper into thin strips and then into thirds.

Rough chop the cucumber into small chunks, seeds can be removed if desired.

Slice the red onion in half and then dice it as preferred.

Once the pasta is room temperature, add it to a large bowl.

Chop the salami and mini pepperoni into small chunks and add to the bowl.

Add the mozzarella pearls to the bowl.

Add about half a can of sliced black olives to the bowl.

Shake in dried Italian herb blend, paprika, and crushed red pepper flakes to taste.

Pour in Italian dressing (start with about 1 cup) and mix everything together.

Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the dressing as needed.

Add grated Parmesan cheese and fresh chopped parsley, then mix again.

Cover and place in the fridge until ready to serve.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary

Allergens