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Pizza-Licious Pasta Salad

Pizza-licious Pasta Salad, a tri color rotini with cubes of mozzarella, cheddar, black olives, pepperoni, and an italian dressing



Yield: Approx. 14-16 1/2 cup servings Prep: 15 minutes Cook: 12 minutes

Ingredients:

  • 1 (16 oz.) package tri-color rotini pasta, cooked and cooled

  • 2 tomatoes, seeded and diced

  • 1/2 lb. cheddar cheese, cubed

  • 1/2 lb. mozzarella cheese, cubed

  • 1 sweet onion, sliced

  • 1 (3 oz.) package sliced pepperoni

  • 1 (6 oz.) can black olives, drained

Dressing:

  • 3/4 cup olive oil

  • 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • 1/2 cup red wine vinegar

  • 2 teaspoons dried oregano

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

  • 1 teaspoon salt

  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

  • Cayenne pepper to taste

Instructions:


A bowl with all the ingredients waiting on the dressing.

  1. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, diced tomatoes, cubed cheeses, sliced onion, pepperoni, and drained black olives.

  2. Make the Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, grated Parmesan cheese, red wine vinegar, oregano, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper.

  3. Toss and Chill: Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and gently toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.

Tips:

  • For a spicier salad: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing.

  • To make it ahead: Prepare the salad up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator.

  • For a heartier salad: Add some cooked chicken or ground beef.


Pizza-Licious Pasta Salad: A Crowd-Pleaser That Never Disappoints

Let me tell you, this "Pizza-Licious" Pasta Salad is a true family favorite – and a serious hit at any gathering. It's the dish that disappears first at potlucks, the one my nibblers (aka my kids) always request, and the one that has become synonymous with summer fun.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. It's a delightful blend of classic pasta salad ingredients with a playful pizza twist. Think vibrant tri-color rotini pasta mingling with juicy tomatoes, creamy cheeses, savory pepperoni, and the zing of black olives. All of this is then tossed in a vibrant Italian-inspired dressing that perfectly complements the flavors.

But it's not just the taste that makes this salad a winner. It's also incredibly versatile and easy to prepare. Toss everything together, pop it in the fridge, and let the flavors meld. It's the perfect make-ahead dish, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your guests instead of slaving away in the kitchen.

This salad has become a staple at our family barbecues, picnics, and even casual weeknight dinners. The nibblers, of course, gobble it up, but even the most discerning adult guests can't resist its charm.

And let's be honest, who doesn't love a good pasta salad? It's the quintessential summer side dish, perfect for picnics, potlucks, and backyard barbecues. It's a dish that brings people together, a reminder of lazy summer days and carefree moments.

So, the next time you're planning a gathering, big or small, I highly recommend giving this Pizza-Licious Pasta Salad a try. It's a crowd-pleaser guaranteed to impress, and it's sure to become a new family favorite.

P.S. Feel free to get creative and customize this recipe to your liking. Add some chopped bell peppers for extra crunch, or sprinkle with a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. The possibilities are endless!

P.S.S. Are you following me yet? If not, hit the emojis below and let's connect on social media!

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This crowd pleasing recipe for pizza pasta salad is quick and easy to make.

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