For a vegetarian option, omit the pepperoni and add marinated artichoke hearts or sun-dried tomatoes. To prevent the broccoli and cauliflower from being too crunchy, you can lightly steam or blanch them before adding them to the salad. Feel free to experiment with other types of cheese, such as provolone or cheddar. For a brighter flavor, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to the dressing. This salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
The Ultimate Pasta Salad
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PREP TIME15 mins
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COOK TIME10 mins
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TOTAL TIME1 hrs 25 mins
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SERVING12 People
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VIEWS193
A vibrant symphony of tri-colored pasta intertwined with crisp broccoli, cauliflower, savory pepperoni, and creamy mozzarella. This pasta salad is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a delightful summer supper. Its flavors deepen beautifully overnight, making it an ideal make-ahead dish.
Ingridients
Adjust Servings
Nutrition
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Carbohydrate36 g
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Cholesterol32 mg
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Fiber4 g
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Protein16 g
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Saturated Fat6 g
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Sodium572 mg
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Sugar3 g
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Fat23 g
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Unsaturated Fat0 g
DIRECTIONS
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01 Step
Recipe View In a large pot, bring generously salted water to a rolling boil. Add the tri-colored spiral pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente, approximately 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta thoroughly and transfer it to a large bowl. To prevent sticking, drizzle with a touch of olive oil and toss gently. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to chill completely. (1 hour)
02 Step
Recipe View In the bowl with the chilled pasta, gently combine the broccoli florets, cauliflower, red onion, minced garlic, quartered pepperoni, mozzarella cheese cubes, and sliced black olives.
03 Step
Recipe View In a separate small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil and red wine vinegar. Season generously with sea salt, freshly ground black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Adjust the seasonings to your liking.
04 Step
Recipe View Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently but thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated. Cover the bowl tightly and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and deepen. (2 hours or overnight)
05 Step
Recipe View Before serving, give the pasta salad a final gentle toss. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, if desired.
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RECIPE REVIEWS
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Please Rate
Abby Powlowski
Feb 26, 2025The dressing is perfectly balanced – not too oily or acidic.
Ryleigh White
Feb 9, 2025I love the addition of pepperoni and mozzarella – it makes it so much more flavorful than other pasta salads I've tried.
Jonathan Rippin
Jun 27, 2024My kids even loved it, and they're usually picky eaters!
Felicity Cormier
Jun 26, 2024I added some grilled chicken for a complete meal.
Alaina Franecki
Jun 21, 2024The tip about chilling the pasta uncovered is a game-changer! No more mushy pasta salad.
Ressie Kub
Nov 8, 2023This pasta salad is always a hit at potlucks!
Hilbert Heidenreich
Nov 3, 2023This recipe is so versatile – I've made it with different vegetables and cheeses, and it always turns out great.