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Salad Ideas Cooking Time : 30 minutes Recipe Servings : 4 - 6 Recipe Dificult : easy 0.00

Italian Macaroni Salad Recipe | Zesty Italian Pasta Salad

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Italian Macaroni Salad is a colorful, flavorful pasta salad made with tender elbow macaroni, juicy tomatoes, crisp bell peppers, black olives, mozzarella, and savory Italian-style dressing. Dried oregano, garlic, fresh herbs, and tangy red wine vinegar bring classic Mediterranean-inspired flavors to every bite. The combination of soft pasta, crunchy vegetables, and creamy cheese makes this salad satisfying without feeling too heavy.

Perfect for summer picnics, barbecues, potlucks, family lunches, and make-ahead meals, this easy salad is delicious served chilled. The dressing coats the macaroni and vegetables with a bright, zesty flavor that develops as the salad rests. Customize it with salami, pepperoni, or extra vegetables to suit your taste, and serve it as a refreshing side dish or a light lunch.

Cooking Method

Cook the macaroni in salted boiling water according to the package instructions until tender.
Drain the pasta, rinse briefly under cold water, and drain thoroughly. Allow it to cool.
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
Place the cooled macaroni in a large mixing bowl.
Add the cherry tomatoes, bell pepper, black olives, mozzarella, red onion, and optional salami.
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
Toss again before serving. Add a little extra olive oil or vinegar if the pasta has absorbed much of the dressing.
Garnish with fresh parsley or basil and serve chilled.