What makes something a classic? See, I went back and forth naming this recipe, but since we grew up calling this classic Italian pasta salad, I just had to go with that. It felt right.

Plus, once you make it, I have no doubt you’ll not only agree it’s a classic, but that it’s a must for all the hot days ahead. I say this with mucho confidence; I’ve been eating this stuff for years and see no end in sight.

The logistics of a classic Italian pasta salad are pretty simple. Pick a small noodle, dress it up in a homemade Italian dressing (you can totally buy the store stuff if you’re not against it; for me it would be sacrilege), and toss in some salami, shard cheddar, and crispy crunchy veggies. SO simple! SO amazing!

 

I found these adorable little elk shaped noodles at IKEA and well, I just HAD to have them. Aren’t they just the cutest?

 

I like to use the same veggies my mom used when making this: red onion, green bell, red bell, a touch of parsley, and an extra crispy cucumber. That being said, I think the add-in options are endless! As I say with most of my salad recipes – make it your own!

Whenever I make this dish I always double the recipe, and I highly encourage you to do the same – especially if you plan on sharing! Because who can say no to scoop on top of scoop of zesty, tangy pasta salad? Exactly.

Happy Tuesday, guys! Hope it’s grand 🙂

Classic Italian Pasta Salad – Baker by Nature

Makes 4 large servings, or 8 tiny ones

Ingredients:

8 ounces dried pasta, cooked al dente

1 large red pepper, seeded and diced

1 large green pepper, seeded and diced

1 large cucumber, peeled and diced

1 small red onion, diced VERY small

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, roughly chopped

(1) 8 oz stick of black pepper dry salami, cubed

5 oz sharp cheddar cheese, cubed

Instructions:

Cook pasta al dente, then drain and cool by running under cold water for a few minutes. Toss the cooked pasta with 1/2 of the dressing, then mix in salami, cheese, and vegetables. Stir in the rest of the dressing, and top with grated cheese if desired. Chill until needed.

Homemade Zesty Italian Dressing:

2 cloves of garlic, chopped

2 tablespoons fresh basil

1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

1 tablespoon onion powder

1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

2 tablespoons red bell pepper, diced

1 tablespoon sugar

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper

1/4 red wine vinegar

1/2 cup olive oil

Instructions:

Combine all of the ingredients EXCEPT the olive oil in a blender and pulse until smooth. Slowly whisk in olive oil. Pour over pasta salad and toss well.