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Italian Pasta Salad

Italian Pasta Salad

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Italian Pasta Salad is a colorful and refreshing dish that perfectly captures the essence of summer gatherings. This delightful salad combines hearty fusilli pasta with protein-packed chickpeas, vibrant cherry tomatoes, and a medley of crunchy vegetables, all tossed in a zesty dressing. It’s not only easy to prepare but also customizable to suit your taste preferences. The vivid colors and flavors make it an appealing addition to picnics, barbecues, or casual family lunches, ensuring that everyone will want seconds. Serve it chilled for the best experience—you’ll enjoy the way the flavors meld together!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb. fusilli pasta
  • 1 (15-oz.) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup mini sweet peppers, thinly sliced
  • 3/4 cup sliced pepperoncini peppers
  • 3/4 cup pitted kalamata olives, halved
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 3/4 cup cubed provolone or mozzarella cheese
  • 2 to 3 cups fresh baby spinach, roughly chopped
  • 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 2 Tbsp. pepperoncini brine (or fresh lemon juice)
  • 3 Tbsp. minced shallots
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tsp. dried oregano
  • 2 tsp. dried parsley
  • 3/4 tsp. kosher salt
  • 1/2 tsp. black pepper

Instructions

  1. Cook the fusilli pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water.
  2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, minced shallots, garlic, oregano, parsley, salt, and pepper.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine pasta with chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, sweet peppers, spinach, pepperoncini peppers, olives, and cheeses.
  4. Pour the dressing over the mixture and toss well to combine.
  5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1-2 hours before serving.

Nutrition

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