antipasto pasta salad recipe

The Best antipasto pasta salad recipe

I’ve been making this antipasto pasta salad recipe for years, and it’s always a hit with my family. The combination of pasta, cheese, meats, and vegetables is just perfect.

I love that it’s easy to customize to suit everyone’s tastes. My kids enjoy helping me prepare the ingredients and adding their favorite toppings.

This salad is perfect for potlucks, picnics, or just a quick weeknight dinner. Plus, it’s a great way to get in some extra veggies and protein.

I’ve even served it at holiday gatherings and parties, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser. One of the best things about this recipe is that it’s incredibly versatile – you can make it ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to a day, or serve it immediately for a fresh, flavorful meal.

My family loves when I serve this salad as a main course or as a side dish to accompany grilled meats or roasted vegetables. The key to making this recipe is using high-quality ingredients – fresh vegetables, good cheese, and cured meats make all the difference in the flavor and texture of the salad.

Don’t be afraid to get creative with your toppings – some of our favorites include sliced olives, artichoke hearts, pepperoncini, and chopped hard-boiled eggs.

Antipasto Pasta Salad

Antipasto Pasta Salad

4.9 from 1859 votes

A colorful and flavorful pasta salad with cured meats, cheeses, and vegetables, perfect for a picnic or potluck. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.

Prep Time30 mins
Cook Time10 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time40 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 400 kcal

πŸ₯˜Ingredients

Salad

1 lb (450g) pasta shapes
1/2 cup (120ml) olive oil
1/4 cup (60ml) red wine vinegar
1 tsp (5g) dried oregano
1 tsp (5g) dried basil
1/2 tsp (2.5g) salt
1/4 tsp (1.25g) black pepper
1 cup (150g) cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup (150g) cucumber, diced
1/2 cup (75g) red onion, thinly sliced
1/2 cup (75g) pitted Kalamata olives
1/2 cup (75g) crumbled feta cheese
1/2 cup (75g) sliced pepperoni
1/2 cup (75g) sliced salami
1/4 cup (30g) chopped fresh parsley

πŸ‘¨β€πŸ³Directions

1Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat.
2Add pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
3Drain and rinse under cold water.
Set aside.
4In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
5Add cooked pasta, tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, feta, pepperoni, salami, and parsley.
6Toss gently until well coated.
7Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
8Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir.
9Serve chilled, garnished with additional parsley if desired.

πŸ”§Equipment

Large pot
Large bowl
Measuring cups and spoons
Cutting board
Knife

πŸ“ŠNutrition Facts (per serving)

πŸ”₯Calories: 400 kcal🧈Total Fat: 24gπŸ’›Saturated Fat: 6g❀️Cholesterol: 35mgπŸ§‚Sodium: 1200mg🌾Total Carbs: 32gπŸ₯¦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 4gπŸ₯©Protein: 14g

πŸ“Notes

Tips: For a spicier salad, add sliced jalapeΓ±os or red pepper flakes. For a vegetarian option, omit the pepperoni and salami.

This antipasto pasta salad is always a good idea for any occasion. It is easy to prepare, versatile, and packed with flavor.

I love making it for family gatherings because it feeds a crowd and everyone enjoys it. The combination of pasta, vegetables, meats, and cheeses makes it a complete meal that is both satisfying and nourishing.

Plus, it can be made ahead of time, making it a convenient option for busy schedules. It is a dish that brings everyone to the table, and I am sure it will become a favorite in your home too.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Antipasto Pasta Salad

1. What is antipasto pasta salad?

Antipasto pasta salad is a type of Italian-inspired salad made with pasta, cured meats, cheese, vegetables, and sometimes fruits. It’s typically served as a side dish or light lunch.

2. Can I customize this recipe?

Yes! One of the best things about antipasto pasta salad is that you can customize it to suit your tastes. Feel free to add or subtract ingredients as you see fit.

3. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover antipasto pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can also freeze it for up to two months – just thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

4. Can I reheat antipasto pasta salad?

Yes! Reheating antipasto pasta salad is easy – simply microwave individual portions for 30-60 seconds or reheat the entire salad in a saucepan over low heat until warmed through.

5. What are some good toppings for antipasto pasta salad?

Some of our favorite toppings include sliced olives, artichoke hearts, pepperoncini, chopped hard-boiled eggs, diced red onion, chopped fresh parsley or basil.

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