Name: Antipasto Pasta Salad with Parmesan Herb Vinaigrette
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Ingredients: 12 oz rotini or penne pasta; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/2 cup sliced black olives; 1/2 cup green olives, halved; 1 cup marinated artichoke hearts, chopped; 1/2 cup roasted red peppers, sliced; 1/2 cup mozzarella pearls or cubed fresh mozzarella; 1/2 cup cubed salami or pepperoni; 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped; 1/3 cup olive oil; 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; 1 garlic clove, minced; 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/2 teaspoon dried basil; Salt and pepper to taste

Okay, friend get ready for your new go-to pasta salad that’s bursting with color, flavor, and serious main character energy. This Antipasto Pasta Salad with Parmesan Herb Vinaigrette isn’t just a side dish… it’s the dish that steals the show at potlucks, family BBQs, or cozy lunches. We’re talking juicy cherry tomatoes, salty olives, savory meats, and a punchy vinaigrette that ties it all together like a flavor party in your mouth. And the best part? It’s crazy easy to make and even better the next day. Trust me, you’ll be dreaming about leftovers (if there are any).

Why You’ll Love Antipasto Pasta Salad with Parmesan Herb Vinaigrette

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Versatile: It works as a side or a full meal and is perfect for picnics, parties, or lunchboxes.

Budget-Friendly: You can totally make this with pantry staples and affordable deli items.

Quick and Easy: Throw everything in a bowl, toss it with the dressing, and boom done in under 30 minutes.

Customizable: Use whatever meats, cheeses, or veggies you have on hand it’s super flexible and forgiving.

Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.

Ingredients in Antipasto Pasta Salad with Parmesan Herb Vinaigrette

Let’s break down what makes this salad a total flavor bomb:

Pasta: Short shapes like rotini, fusilli, or penne are perfect they hold all that yummy vinaigrette and mix-ins like a champ.

Salami and Pepperoni: These add a delicious savory bite and make the salad feel hearty and satisfying.

Mozzarella Balls: Creamy, soft, and the perfect balance to the tangy dressing. They soak up flavor like little sponges.

Cherry Tomatoes: Bursting with sweet juiciness, they add freshness and a pop of color.

Olives: Briny and bold, they give this salad that classic antipasto flair.

Roasted Red Peppers: Sweet and smoky, they take things to the next level.

Parmesan Cheese: Shaved or grated it adds that salty, nutty kick that ties everything together.

Parmesan Herb Vinaigrette: A zesty, herby dressing with olive oil, vinegar, garlic, fresh herbs, and a good dose of parmesan to coat every bite with flavor.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:

Preheat Your Equipment

No preheating needed for this one just grab your biggest mixing bowl and maybe a blender or jar for the vinaigrette.

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your pasta until al dente, then drain and rinse with cold water to cool it down quickly and stop the cooking process.

Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, blender, or jar, combine olive oil, vinegar, grated parmesan, garlic, and herbs. Whisk or shake until well blended. Taste and adjust seasoning this dressing is bold, tangy, and so addictive.

Chop the Mix-Ins

Slice the meats, halve the cherry tomatoes, chop the olives and roasted peppers, and get everything ready to toss.

Combine Ingredients

In your large mixing bowl, toss the cooled pasta with all your meats, veggies, cheese, and olives. Pour the vinaigrette over everything and toss gently to coat.

Chill and Marinate

Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let those flavors mingle. It gets even better the longer it sits!

Serve and Enjoy

Top with extra parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh herbs before serving. Serve chilled or at room temp it’s delish either way.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 8
Calories per serving: 400–450

(Note: These values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients used.)

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

How to Serve Antipasto Pasta Salad with Parmesan Herb Vinaigrette

This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:

As a main dish with crusty bread and a glass of chilled rosé
Alongside grilled chicken, steak, or salmon for a full meal
With a light soup for a balanced lunch
At picnics or potlucks it travels like a champ and doesn’t need reheating
On a big platter, garnished with extra herbs and cheese, for a beautiful presentation

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:

Make it ahead this salad is even better the next day.
Want it vegetarian? Just skip the meats or sub in roasted chickpeas or marinated tofu.
Use jarred pesto or sun-dried tomatoes for a flavor twist.
Add arugula or spinach just before serving for extra greens and color.

FAQ’s

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! Rotini, penne, farfalle, or even tortellini all work beautifully.

2. How long does this pasta salad last in the fridge?
It keeps well for up to 3–4 days in an airtight container.

3. Can I make this salad vegetarian?
Absolutely just skip the meats or use a plant-based protein substitute.

4. Is it okay to use bottled dressing?
You can, but the homemade vinaigrette really takes this dish to the next level.

5. What’s a good substitute for mozzarella balls?
Cubes of cheddar, provolone, or even feta can be swapped in.

6. Can I serve this warm?
It’s best served chilled or at room temp, but lightly warming it works if you prefer.

7. What herbs work best in the vinaigrette?
Basil, oregano, parsley, or thyme all add lovely flavor fresh or dried.

8. Can I add vegetables like cucumbers or artichokes?
Yes! Feel free to mix in whatever veggies you love.

9. What meats can I use besides salami and pepperoni?
Prosciutto, ham, or grilled chicken are all tasty additions.

10. How do I keep it from getting dry?
If it dries out in the fridge, just add a splash of olive oil or extra vinaigrette before serving.

Conclusion

Antipasto Pasta Salad with Parmesan Herb Vinaigrette is everything you want in a pasta salad vibrant, bold, easy to throw together, and completely irresistible. Whether you’re prepping for a picnic or whipping up a quick lunch, it’s the kind of dish that brings joy with every bite. So go ahead, make a big batch, share it with friends (or keep it all to yourself), and enjoy the colorful, flavorful goodness!