Italian Pasta Salad

This Italian Pasta Salad is always a hit with cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, pepperoni, sweet peppers, olives and artichokes.  A bit of everything bagel seasoning really adds a special touch to this potluck favorite.

This side dish is so easy to put together for your next BBQ or potluck.  You can add more or less of your favorite veggies to customize this family favorite.  Add your favorite Italian Salad dressing and let it set overnight for best results.

Storing Italian Pasta Salad

For best results, store this pasta salad overnight in a sealed container.  Lightly stir before serving to insure all flavors are incorporated.  Enjoy this dish within 3 days when refrigerated.

Needed Ingredients

• 12 Oz. Box of Tri-Colored Rotini – prepare “al dente” per package directions
• 1 Pint of Cherry or Grape tomatoes – cut in half
• 2- 2.25 oz. cans of sliced black olives
• 14 oz. can Artichokes – cut into quarters
• 1/2 C. – finely diced Red Onion
• 8 Oz. Fresh Mozzarella Cheese – break into large chunks
• 5 oz. thinly sliced pepperoni – I use Turkey Pepperoni
• 6 Sweet Tri-Colored Peppers – small diced
• 1/2 C. Parmesan cheese – shredded
• 1/4 C. Everything Bagel Seasoning
• 16 Oz. Bottle of Italian Salad Dressing – I use around 3/4 of the bottle

How to Make Italian Pasta Salad

• Prepare pasta “al dente” per package instructions
• Run pasta under cool water while draining
• In a large bowl; add the artichokes, red onion, sweet peppers, tomatoes pepperoni and black olives 
• Add the Italian salad dressing and Everything Bagel Seasoning.
• Add the Mozzarella and shredded parmesan and lightly toss until combined.
• Cover and refrigerate at least 6 hours before serving for best results.

Recipe Variations

I just love changing up the ingredients in my pasta salad to keep things exciting.  The veggies are interchangeable and can be customized with all your favorites.  This Sun-Dried Tomato and Kale Pasta Salad is another popular recipe with examples of different vegetables that can be used.

Don’t be afraid to switch out the cheese.  Feta cheese, parmesan cheese and Mozzarella are my favorites for pasta salad.  I prefer to combine parmesan and Mozzarella with this Italian Pasta Salad.

Make this a Greek Pasta salad by substituting Greek salad dressing with a bit of added cucumber and feta cheese in place of the Mozzarella.

Seasonings can be varied to taste, this Salad Supreme Seasoning can also be used in place of Everything Bagel seasoning.  

Side Dishes to go with Italian Pasta Salad

If you are looking for a quick and easy recipe to go with your pasta salad, this Watermelon Salad with Feta Mint is simple and always popular.  Broccoli Slaw Salad is a great way to add more veggies to your menu without having to turn on the oven.  A honey and lime dressing make this Corn Salad with Avocado so flavorful.  Adding ranch seasoning to this Loaded Potato Salad is a great way to mix up the traditional flavors.