Our sweet Pappi has always been a family man. He loves his kids more than anything in the world… and don’t even get him started on his grandkids! He’s also big on traditions that have been passed down from generation to generation and yummy foods that celebrate his Italian heritage. He was born to host, so it gives him great joy to have everyone over and keep the traditions alive while eating delicious foods, like his staple, Pappi’s Pasta Salad. No matter if it’s Christmas, a birthday, or just a regular Wednesday, if there are people visiting, there’s going to be a big bowl waiting on the table full of his bouncy pasta salad mixed with the best salami on the market. He mixes in fresh veggies and herbs, along with some creamy cheeses, for the perfect combo. Oh, and nothing can ever beat the tangy Italian dressing he uses for the burst of flavor in every bite. Having Pappi’s Pasta Salad every chance we get is the tastiest tradition… one we plan to continue for years and years!
Ingredients
- 1/2 pound short pasta, such as fusilli
- 3 ounces salami
- 1 1/2 cups grape tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1/2 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, chopped
- 1/2 cup kalamata black olives, halved
- 4 ounces bocconcini mozzarella balls, halved
- 1 1/2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup Italian dressing
- parmesan cheese, optional, to taste, grated, for serving
Directions
Step 1 –In a medium pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta to al dente, according to the package directions.
Step 2 –Drain and rinse the pasta under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down.
Step 3 –Transfer the pasta to a large mixing bowl or serving bowl.
Step 4 –Add the salami, the grape tomatoes, the green pepper, the red bell pepper, the red onion, the olives, the mozzarella, and the fresh parsley to the pasta.
Step 5 –Pour the Italian salad dressing on top of the pasta salad and toss to combine.
Step 6 –Sprinkle the pasta salad with the parmesan cheese.
Step 7 –Serve.
