Zesty Italian Antipasto Pasta Salad Recipe

Antipasto Salad Recipe

Cook Time: 15 minutes
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 12
Calories: 130.6 kcal per serving

Description

This homemade Antipasto Salad is my personal take on the classic deli-style favorite. If you’re tired of paying hefty prices at the deli counter, this recipe is a fantastic way to create the same delicious salad at home for a fraction of the cost. Fresh vegetables, pasta, and a zesty Italian dressing come together in perfect harmony, making this salad a flavorful and refreshing dish that’s simple to prepare.

Ingredients

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pasta and Vegetables:

   • Cook the tri-color spiral pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and allow it to cool completely.
   • While the pasta is cooking, prepare the vegetables. Cut the broccoli and cauliflower into small florets. Halve the cherry tomatoes, slice the carrot thinly, and chop the green bell pepper into bite-sized pieces.

2. Combine Ingredients:

   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and cooled pasta, broccoli florets, cauliflower florets, artichoke hearts, black olives, chopped green bell pepper, halved cherry tomatoes, and sliced carrot.
   • Add the lemon pepper and fresh basil, tossing gently to distribute the seasonings evenly.

3. Dress the Salad:

   • Pour your favorite Italian dressing over the salad, using about 1/2 cup, or adjust to taste.
   • Toss everything together to ensure the dressing coats all the ingredients evenly.

4. Marinate for Best Flavor:

   • Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the salad to an airtight container.
   • Let the salad marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. This will allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
   • Halfway through marinating, give the salad another toss to redistribute the dressing and ensure every bite is flavorful.

5. Final Touches:

   • Just before serving, sprinkle freshly shredded Parmesan cheese over the top.
   • You can also add a few more fresh basil leaves for a fragrant garnish, along with fresh mozzarella balls or extra marinated olives if desired.

Serving Suggestions

This antipasto salad is a perfect side dish for barbecues, potlucks, or as part of a light lunch. The vibrant vegetables and zesty dressing pair wonderfully with grilled meats, sandwiches, or even served with crusty bread. The longer it marinates, the better the flavors become, making it an ideal make-ahead recipe for gatherings.

Tips and Variations

• Dressing Choice: If you’re not a fan of traditional Italian dressing, consider using a balsamic vinaigrette or even a light lemon herb dressing for a different flavor profile.
• Add Protein: To make this a heartier dish, you can add some protein like diced salami, pepperoni, or grilled chicken.
• Make it Gluten-Free: Swap out the pasta for a gluten-free version to accommodate dietary preferences.
• Cheese Options: Feel free to mix up the cheese! Feta, goat cheese, or even cubed cheddar can bring a delightful twist to this salad.
• Vegan Version: Simply omit the cheese and use a vegan Italian dressing to make this salad plant-based.

Conclusion

With its fresh, crisp veggies, flavorful pasta, and the tangy kick of Italian dressing, this Antipasto Salad is the perfect combination of ease and flavor. You’ll love how simple it is to make this at home, and it’s versatile enough to customize according to your taste preferences. Skip the deli and make this budget-friendly, crowd-pleasing dish for your next gathering or meal!