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Italian-Inspired Pasta Salad with Mozzarella and Salami

Italian-Inspired Pasta Salad with Mozzarella and Salami

Italian-Inspired Pasta Salad with Mozzarella and Salami

Introduction

Italian-inspired pasta salad with mozzarella and salami is a delicious and refreshing dish that combines the flavors of Italy in one bowl. Perfect for summer picnics, potlucks, or as a side dish for your favorite Italian meal, this salad is packed with fresh ingredients and bursts with flavors.

Ingredients

For this pasta salad, you will need:

Pasta

1 pound of fusilli pasta

Dressing

1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil

2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar

2 cloves of garlic, minced

1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard

Salt and pepper to taste

Salad

1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup of mini mozzarella balls

1/2 cup of sliced salami

1/4 cup of sliced black olives

1/4 cup of sliced red onion

1/4 cup of chopped fresh basil

Steps

Follow these simple steps to make the Italian-inspired pasta salad:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the fusilli pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Set aside.

Step 3: Combine the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, mini mozzarella balls, sliced salami, black olives, red onion, and fresh basil. Pour the dressing over the ingredients and toss gently to coat everything evenly.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Variations

There are several ways to customize this Italian-inspired pasta salad:

Vegetarian Option

If you prefer a vegetarian version, simply omit the salami. You can add extra vegetables such as roasted red peppers, artichoke hearts, or grilled zucchini for added flavor.

Protein Boost

If you want to add more protein to your salad, you can include grilled chicken breast, cooked shrimp, or even canned tuna.

Herb Substitutions

If you don’t have fresh basil on hand, you can use dried basil or substitute it with other fresh herbs such as parsley or cilantro.

Tips

Here are some tips to make the perfect Italian-inspired pasta salad:

– Cook the pasta al dente, so it holds its shape and has a slight bite to it.

– Rinse the cooked pasta with cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent it from becoming mushy.

– Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor. Fresh cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and salami will elevate the taste of your salad.

– Allow the salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving to let the flavors meld together.

Conclusion

Italian-inspired pasta salad with mozzarella and salami is a versatile and tasty dish that brings the flavors of Italy to your table. With its combination of fresh ingredients, tangy dressing, and savory salami, this salad is sure to be a hit at any gathering. Enjoy it as a standalone meal or as a side dish alongside your favorite Italian dishes.

FAQs

Can I make this salad in advance?

Yes, you can make this salad a day in advance. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to serve. Give it a good toss before serving to redistribute the dressing.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer. Penne, farfalle, or rotini would work well in this salad.

Can I substitute the mozzarella with a different cheese?

Yes, you can substitute the mozzarella with other soft cheeses such as feta or goat cheese if desired.

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