Dinner

Italian Pasta Salad Recipe

Name: Italian Pasta Salad Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 1 h 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb radiator pasta; 1/4 lb Genoa salami, diced; 12 oz marinated mozzarella balls, sliced in half; 1 dry pint grape tomatoes, sliced into thirds; 3 marinated Roman artichoke hearts, chopped; Handful of fresh basil, chopped; 1/2 cup olive oil; 1 tsp sugar; 4 tbsp mayonnaise; 4 tbsp red wine vinegar; 4 tbsp grated pecorino romano cheese; 1 garlic clove, smashed and minced; Salt and pepper, to taste

ByRafael Mansero March 25, 2026March 25, 2026

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Introduction

This Italian Pasta Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish perfect for warm days or casual gatherings. Packed with savory salami, creamy mozzarella, and fresh vegetables, it’s dressed in a tangy homemade vinaigrette that brings everything together beautifully.

Ingredients

1 lb radiator pasta
1/4 lb Genoa salami, diced
12 oz marinated mozzarella balls, sliced in half
1 dry pint grape tomatoes, sliced into thirds
3 marinated Roman artichoke hearts, chopped
Handful of basil, chopped
Dressing:

1/2 cup olive oil
1 tsp sugar
4 tbsp mayonnaise
4 tbsp red wine vinegar
4 tbsp grated Pecorino Romano
1 garlic clove, smashed and minced
Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the diced Genoa salami, sliced grape tomatoes, chopped artichoke hearts, and halved mozzarella balls.
Step 2: Boil the radiator pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta.
Step 3: Add the rinsed pasta to the bowl with the other ingredients, then sprinkle the chopped basil on top.
Step 4: Prepare the dressing by whisking together olive oil, mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, grated Pecorino Romano, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
Step 5: Pour the dressing over the pasta salad and toss gently to ensure everything is evenly coated.
Step 6: Refrigerate the salad for at least one hour to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

Use fresh basil for the best aroma, or substitute with fresh parsley if preferred.
Add olives or roasted red peppers for extra depth and color.
For a lighter version, swap mayonnaise with Greek yogurt in the dressing.
Make sure to rinse the pasta with cold water to prevent it from sticking and to keep the salad refreshing.

Storage

Store the Italian Pasta Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Before serving again, toss gently and add a splash of olive oil or vinegar if it seems dry. This salad is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature but should not be frozen.

How to Serve

A white oval bowl filled with a creamy pasta salad featuring spiral-shaped pasta mixed with fresh green basil leaves, halved bright red cherry tomatoes, small white mozzarella balls, and pieces of light pink deli meat. The salad is coated in a creamy dressing that adds a glossy texture, with hints of seasoning visible. The bowl sits on a wooden surface, and there's a cookbook with a smiling woman on the cover in the background, along with orange and red kitchen tools to the left. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, while radiator pasta works well due to its shape holding the dressing, other short pasta like rotini, farfalle, or penne will also work nicely.

How long should the salad chill before serving?

Chilling for at least one hour allows the flavors to blend together, but you can refrigerate it longer—up to overnight—for an even more flavorful salad.