Ingredients

1 lb rotini pasta , cooked al dente , drained , and rinsed under cold water ( can substitute shell or even elbow pasta )
1/2 cup genoa salami , chopped
1/2 cup pepperoni , chopped
1 cup asiago cheese , small diced ( can substitute mozzarella )
1 can black olives , drained and chopped
1/4 cup pitted green olives , drained and chopped
1/4 cup pepperoncini pepper , drained well ( optional )
1 red bell pepper , chopped
1 green bell pepper , chopped
3 roma tomatoes , chopped
1 package dried Italian salad dressing mix
3/4 cup olive oil
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons dried oregano
1 tablespoon dried parsley
1 tablespoon grated parmesan cheese
black pepper
iceberg lettuce , optional serving suggestion
Italiano Pasta Salad is a popular meal in Italy, especially during the summer season. This refreshing salad has a perfect balance of pasta, cheese, vegetables, and protein-rich meats. This salad showcases the Italian cuisine, which is based on simple, fresh, and flavorful ingredients. The dressing mixture made with Italian salad dressing mix, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and dried seasoning adds a perfect tangy and savory flavor to this dish.

Instructions

1.Cook the pasta according to package directions and rinse with cold water.
2.Chopped the salami, pepperoni, olives, pepperoncini, roma tomatoes, red and green bell peppers.
3.In a large bowl, whisk together Italian salad dressing mix, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, oregano, parsley, grated parmesan cheese, and black pepper.
4.Add the chopped ingredients into the bowl and stir well until everything is covered in the dressing mixture.
5.Serve immediately or chill in the fridge for an hour before serving. Optional to serve with iceberg lettuce.

PROS

Italiano Pasta Salad is an easy to make, healthy and delicious meal that can be made with readily available ingredients.
It also provides a good source of vitamins, protein, and carbohydrates, perfect for a quick lunch or a side dish with dinner.

CONS

This salad may not be suitable for those with celiac disease gluten-intolerant as the pasta contains gluten.
Additionally, the high-fat content of salami and pepperoni make it a high-calorie option, which should be consumed in moderation.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Italiano Pasta Salad is a good source of protein and carbohydrates, which provides healthy energy for the body. It is also high in vitamins, minerals, and fiber, which promotes a healthy digestive system. Additionally, the olives and olive oil used in the salad dressing contain healthy fats like monounsaturated fats and omega-3 fatty acids, which can help reduce bad cholesterol levels and promote heart health.

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