Nothing screams summer quite like a Chopped Italian Pasta Salad loaded with fresh veggies, bold meats, and creamy cheese! It’s a dish that brings big flavor and zero stress to your table—perfect for BBQs, potlucks, or a light lunch that satisfies every craving.
This isn’t your average pasta salad, folks. We’re talking about layers of color, texture, and flavor in every single bite. Think crunchy bell peppers, tangy banana peppers, juicy tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella pearls—all chopped up and tossed in a zesty homemade Italian dressing. Yes, please! 🤌
✨ Why You’ll Love This Chopped Italian Pasta Salad
Whether you’re a pasta salad fanatic or just need a new go-to side dish, here’s why this recipe slaps:
- ✅ Flavor bomb – Salami, pepper jack, and that herby vinaigrette? Chef’s kiss.
- ✅ Meal-prep hero – Make ahead and let the flavors get even better overnight.
- ✅ Super versatile – Mix, match, and make it your own.
- ✅ Perfect for warm weather – No oven, no fuss. Just cool, crisp, and satisfying.
🧀 Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s break it down! Here’s what goes into this Chopped Italian Pasta Salad masterpiece:
🥗 Salad Base:
- 1 lb cooked pasta (rotini, penne, or bowtie work great)
- ½ cup diced red onion
- ½ cup diced green pepper
- 1 cup mini mozzarella balls
- ½ cup chopped salami
- ½ cup chopped spicy salami
- ⅓ cup diced black olives
- ⅓ cup banana peppers (sliced)
- 1 small diced cucumber
- ½ cup chopped pepper jack cheese
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 2 tbsp extra chopped basil (for freshness and color)
🍋 Italian Dressing:
- ¾ cup olive oil
- ¼ cup red wine vinegar
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ¾ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
🥄 How to Make It – Step-by-Step
This salad is all about the chop, mix, chill lifestyle. Here’s how you do it:
1. Cook the Pasta
Boil your pasta just until al dente—firm but cooked through. This keeps it from getting soggy once the dressing is added.
2. Chop All the Things
Dice your veggies, salami, cheese, and herbs so every bite has a perfect mix. Bite-sized is best!
3. Whisk the Dressing
Combine all the dressing ingredients in a bowl or shake in a mason jar until well mixed.
💡 Pro Tip: Add a pinch of sugar or honey if you like a slightly sweeter dressing.
4. Toss It Together
In a large bowl, add the pasta, veggies, meats, cheese, and herbs. Pour the dressing on top and mix thoroughly to coat every piece.
5. Chill & Serve
Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. This allows the flavors to marinate and intensify.
Customization Ideas
Want to shake things up? Here are some fun swaps and add-ins:
| Ingredient Swap | Try This Instead |
|---|---|
| Mozzarella balls | Cubed provolone or feta |
| Salami | Grilled chicken, pepperoni, or tofu |
| Banana peppers | Roasted red peppers |
| Pasta | Orzo, tortellini, or gluten-free pasta |
| Extra veggies | Artichoke hearts, zucchini, spinach |
🍽️ What to Serve With It
Pair your Chopped Italian Pasta Salad with:
- Grilled chicken skewers or burgers 🍔
- Garlic bread or focaccia 🥖
- A fresh arugula or Caesar salad 🥬
- A crisp rosé or lemon iced tea 🍷🧊
🔥 Expert Tips for the Best Chopped Pasta Salad
- Don’t overcook the pasta: You want structure, not mush.
- Dress it while warm: Warm pasta absorbs more flavor.
- Go bold on the basil: Fresh herbs take this salad to the next level.
- Serve cold, but not icy: Room-temp flavors hit harder.
💬 FAQs
Q: Can I make this pasta salad the day before?
Absolutely! In fact, it tastes better the next day as the flavors marinate.
Q: How long does it last in the fridge?
3–4 days, stored in an airtight container. Stir and taste before serving—add a splash of olive oil if it feels dry.
Q: Is it good for meal prep?
Yes! Pack it in lunch containers and you’ve got lunches sorted all week.
🧠 Nutrition Snapshot (per serving – approx. 1 cup)
- Calories: ~380
- Protein: 10g
- Carbs: 28g
- Fats: 22g
- Fiber: 3g
(Values vary by ingredients used)
📌 Final Thoughts
This Chopped Italian Pasta Salad brings the flavor, freshness, and fun to your next meal. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just prepping for the week ahead, this dish is guaranteed to satisfy.
So go ahead—chop it, toss it, and serve it with pride. And don’t forget to tag a friend who’d LOVE this recipe! 💃🍴
❤️ Loved this recipe?
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