Summer is the time for get-togethers. It seems like every weekend we are packing up the family to head to the lake or a pool party. This super simple pasta salad is made with just a few basic ingredients and can be whipped up in 10 minutes!
Why We Love this Super Simple Pasta Salad
The simplicity of this salad is one of the main reasons it is our go-to side dish. If you follow the recipe as written, most of the prep work is done for you. Other than cooking the pasta, the rest is mostly dump and stir (my favorite kind of cooking).
Secondly, you can change this up to add whatever your family loves. Want a little spice? Add some chopped pepperoncini peppers or a pinch of red pepper flakes. There are so many things you can add to this dish to change up the flavors a bit. When I make it for my dad, I add some slices black olives because they are his favorite.
Finally, it can be made the day before and stored in the fridge so all you have to do is grab it and go. In fact, I think it tastes better the longer it marinates in the dressing!
Ingredients
- Pasta
- Pepperoni
- Cheese
- Tomatoes
- Bell Pepper
- Italian Dressing
How to Make this Super Simple Pasta Salad
This recipe is so easy to make, even my kids can help put it together. Boil the pasta according to package instructions. I like to keep mine a little al dente because the noodles will soften a bit when they absorb the dressing. While the pasta is cooking, add the mozzarella, pepperoni, diced peppers, and tomatoes to a large mixing bowl. Drain and rinse the pasta in cold water to stop the cooking process. Add the pasta to the bowl and pour the dressing over the ingredients. Stir and refrigerate for one hour.
Questions and Modifications
Do I have to use tri-color rotini?
You can use whatever type of pasta your family loves. Just follow the package instructions and cook to al dente. We have used whatever pasta we have on hand for this.
What if I can’t find mozzarella pearls?
You can use any type of cheese you want in this recipe. I personally love fresh mozzarella, but it’s also great with Colby jack cheese cubes. I would recommend buying cubed cheese or cutting the blocks into cubes instead of using shredded cheese.
Can I add other ingredients?
Of course! Add in some fresh veggies, olives, or peppers. We love to experiment with this salad and add in whatever we have on hand.
How long does it last in the fridge?
This salad is great for 3-5 days in the fridge. Just store it in an airtight container. I have found that the longer it sits, the more the dressing gets absorbed. I usually keep a little extra dressing on hand to add if it gets dry.
Super Simple Pasta Salad
Ingredients
- 12 oz tri color rotini or any pasta of your choice, drained and rinsed in cold water
- 4 oz mini pepperoni or regular pepperoni cut into 1/4s
- 8 oz mozzarella pearls can substitute cheese cubes
- 1 red bell pepper diced
- 10 oz grape or cherry tomatoes
- 3/4 cup Italian dressing I use Zesty Italian, but you can use whatever your family loves
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package directions. Rinse with cold water and set aside.
- In a large bowl, add pepperoni, cheese, red bell pepper, tomatoes.
- Add cooked and rinsed pasta to the bowl.
- Pour in Italian dressing and stir to coat pasta.
- Refrigerate for an hour (or even overnight).
Notes
- Play around with this recipe and add your favorite ingredients. Roasted red peppers, olives, and pepperoncini are all great in this salad.
- The dressing amounts can vary depending on the ingredients and the type of pasta you use. I recommend starting with 1/2 cup and then slowly add more as you mix the salad. Keep a little extra on hand to add after it sits in the fridge since the ingredients will absorb some of the dressing and can make it dry.
Want to see our favorite kitchen essentials? Check out this post.
Have you tried this super simple pasta salad? Let us know in the comments!
Pingback: What's Up Wednesday: May - Work Life Mom Blog