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Italian Pasta Salad

Refreshing Italian Pasta Salad That Delights Every Bite

This Italian Pasta Salad is a vibrant, protein-packed dish perfect for summer gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 25 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 12 oz Fusilli Pasta Can substitute with whole grain or gluten-free pasta.
  • 1 can Chickpeas Canned beans are convenient.
  • 1 pint Cherry Tomatoes Halved; can substitute with grape tomatoes.
  • 1 cup Mini Sweet Peppers Thinly sliced; can use regular bell peppers.
  • 3/4 cup Pepperoncini Peppers Sliced; substitute with banana peppers for milder flavor.
  • 3/4 cup Kalamata Olives Halved; green olives or capers are alternatives.
  • 1 cup Parmesan Cheese Grated; for sharper taste, use Pecorino Romano.
  • 3/4 cup Provolone or Mozzarella Cheese Cubed; omit for vegan version.
  • 2 to 3 cups Fresh Baby Spinach Roughly chopped; arugula or mixed greens are substitutes.
For the Dressing
  • 1/2 cup Extra-Virgin Olive Oil Opt for high-quality oil.
  • 1/4 cup Red Wine Vinegar Can substitute with white wine vinegar.
  • 2 Tbsp Pepperoncini Brine Fresh lemon juice can be an alternative.
  • 3 Tbsp Shallots Minced; yellow or red onions can also work.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Minced; use fresh garlic for best results.
  • 2 tsp Dried Oregano Alternatively, use fresh oregano.
  • 2 tsp Dried Parsley Fresh parsley can replace it.
  • 3/4 tsp Kosher Salt Adjust to taste.
  • 1/2 tsp Black Pepper Freshly cracked is recommended.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Spatula or Salad Tongs

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add fusilli pasta and cook until al dente, about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water. Set aside to cool.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, and pepperoncini brine. Add minced shallots, garlic, oregano, parsley, kosher salt, and black pepper. Let sit to meld flavors.
  3. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, chickpeas, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced mini sweet peppers, and chopped spinach. Mix in pepperoncini and olives, followed by Parmesan and provolone.
  4. Pour the dressing over the pasta and vegetable mixture. Toss gently to coat all ingredients. Adjust seasoning if needed.
  5. Cover with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 1 to 2 hours, preferably overnight, before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 12gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 11gCholesterol: 25mgSodium: 550mgPotassium: 450mgFiber: 5gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 1000IUVitamin C: 45mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Taste and adjust seasoning before serving. Add fresh herbs to elevate flavor as desired.

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