Name: Healthy Reese’s Eggs (High Protein) Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb rotini noodles; 3.5 to 4 oz pepperoni (about 3/4 cup, quartered); 4 oz salami slices (about 3/4 cup, cut into quarters); 1 pint cherry tomatoes (halved); 1 cup black olives (halved and drained); 1 orange bell pepper (diced); 1 green bell pepper (diced); 1/2 cup finely diced red onion; 2 tbsp chopped pepperoncini; 8 oz mozzarella pearls; Grated parmesan cheese and minced parsley, for topping; 3/4 cup native olive oil; 1/4 cup red wine vinegar; 2 tablespoons organic lemon juice; 1/4 cup finely freshly grated Parmesan; 1 tsp dried parsley; 1 tsp dried basil; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 3/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 tsp oregano; 1/2 tsp paprika powder; 1/2 tsp pepper; 1/2 teaspoon sugar

Jump to Recipe

If you’re craving a vibrant, flavorful dish that comes together in no time, this Quick Italian Pasta Salad is going to become your new go-to. Imagine tender rotini noodles tossed with savory pepperoni and salami, the brightness of fresh cherry tomatoes, crisp bell peppers, and briny olives, all married with a tangy, herb-packed Italian dressing that you can shake up in moments. This salad strikes that perfect balance between hearty and refreshing, making it the ideal dish for busy weeknights, potlucks, or a light lunch that feels truly special. Let me walk you through how to create this irresistible Quick Italian Pasta Salad that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.

Healthy Reese’s Eggs (High Protein) Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward but vibrant ingredients. Each one brings a unique pop of color, texture, or flavor to the table, making every bite exciting and satisfying. Whether it’s the tender pasta or the zesty dressing, every component plays a crucial role in crafting that authentic Italian salad experience.

Rotini noodles: Their spiral shape traps the dressing perfectly for maximum flavor absorption.
Pepperoni (3.5 to 4 oz): Adds a smoky, spicy kick that pairs wonderfully with the fresh veggies.
Salami slices (4 oz): Brings a deliciously rich and savory note.
Cherry tomatoes (1 pint): Bursting with juiciness and sweetness that lightens the dish.
Black olives (1 cup): Provides a salty, briny contrast that complements the meats.
Orange and green bell peppers (1 each): Offer crispness and vibrant color.
Red onion (1/2 cup finely diced): Adds a sharp and slightly sweet crunch.
Pepperoncini (2 tbsp chopped): Gives a touch of mild heat and tanginess.
Mozzarella pearls (8 oz): Soft and creamy, they balance the salad beautifully.
Grated Parmesan cheese and minced parsley: The finishing touch that enhances aroma and flavor.
Native olive oil (3/4 cup): Forms the rich base of the homemade dressing.
Red wine vinegar (1/4 cup): Adds the essential acidity that brightens the salad.
Organic lemon juice (2 tbsp): Gives a fresh citrus zing to the dressing.
Parmesan (1/4 cup finely grated): Blends into the dressing for an umami depth.
Herbs and spices: Dried parsley, basil, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, paprika, salt, pepper, and sugar combine for that classic Italian flavor profile.

How to Make Quick Italian Pasta Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Italian Dressing

The dressing is the star that pulls all these ingredients together. Simply combine native olive oil, red wine vinegar, fresh lemon juice, grated Parmesan, and a blend of dried herbs and spices in a jar. Give it a vigorous shake for 30 seconds until everything is beautifully emulsified. Chill it in the fridge, but don’t forget to shake or whisk it again before using since the ingredients tend to settle. This vibrant dressing is packed with bright and aromatic flavors that make the salad unforgettable.

Step 2: Cook the Rotini Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rotini according to the package instructions until al dente. The texture is key here — you want the pasta tender but still offering a bit of bite. Drain the noodles well and gently toss them in a large bowl while they’re still warm. Handling them now prevents clumping and ensures the dressing clings well later.

Step 3: Combine Pasta and Half of the Dressing

Pour half of your freshly made Italian dressing over the warm rotini noodles and toss until each spiral is coated. The warmth gently softens the noodles, helping them soak up the dressing’s zesty, herbaceous goodness. This is what gives your Quick Italian Pasta Salad that deep flavor foundation.

Step 4: Add Remaining Salad Ingredients

Next, it’s time to add the lively mix of pepperoni, salami, cherry tomatoes, olives, diced bell peppers, red onions, pepperoncini, and mozzarella pearls. Toss everything carefully but thoroughly so the flavors meld while keeping the mozzarella pearls intact and creamy. This colorful medley not only delights the eyes but gives your salad an irresistible mix of texture and flavor with every forkful.

Step 5: Chill the Salad

Cover your salad and pop it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, preferably longer if you can wait. This chilling time lets all those wonderful flavors marry and develop, and makes the salad refreshingly crisp. Keep the remaining dressing stored separately in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

When you’re ready to eat, toss the chilled salad with the rest of your Italian dressing. Then sprinkle generously with grated Parmesan cheese and minced parsley for that perfect finishing touch. I love to add an extra dusting of Parmesan at this point — it makes the salad sing with rich, savory notes that keep you coming back for more.

How to Serve Quick Italian Pasta Salad

Garnishes

Adding a bit of freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan really elevates the look and taste, giving it a fresh, herbaceous kick. Want to go bold? Some crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of balsamic glaze adds a beautiful contrast and a hint of sweetness that works wonders.

Side Dishes

This pasta salad pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or seafood for a light yet satisfying meal. It’s also excellent alongside crusty garlic bread or a simple green salad, making your dinner table look both colorful and inviting.

Creative Ways to Present

For a casual gathering, serve it in a large rustic bowl, letting guests help themselves. If you’re planning a picnic, individual mason jars layered with the pasta salad ingredients not only look charming but keep everything fresh and portable. You can even stuff the salad into hollowed-out bell peppers for a vibrant, edible presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Quick Italian Pasta Salad keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the dressing separate if possible to maintain the pasta’s texture, then toss together again before serving. The flavors deepen over time, making your leftovers just as satisfying as the first go-around.

Freezing

This salad is best enjoyed fresh or chilled. Freezing is not recommended because the fresh vegetables and cheese don’t freeze well, leading to a loss of texture and flavor.

Reheating

Since this is a cold pasta salad, reheating isn’t necessary or advised. Simply take your leftovers out of the fridge, give them a light toss, and enjoy cold for that perfect refreshing bite.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta?

Absolutely! While rotini is perfect for its shape and texture, penne or bowtie pasta also work great in this salad. Just make sure to cook them al dente so they hold up well.

What can I substitute for salami and pepperoni?

If you prefer a vegetarian option, try using roasted vegetables or extra mozzarella instead. For a meat alternative, thinly sliced cooked sausage or ham can add similar savory flavors.

How long should I chill the salad?

At least 30 minutes is ideal to let the flavors blend, but chilling it for up to 24 hours makes the salad even tastier and more refreshing.

Can I prepare the dressing ahead of time?

Definitely! The dressing can be made a day or two in advance and kept in the refrigerator. Just remember to shake or whisk it well before tossing it with the pasta salad.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes, it’s perfect for meal prep since it holds up well over a few days. Keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat for the best texture and flavor combination.

Final Thoughts

Whipping up this Quick Italian Pasta Salad is like inviting a burst of sunshine and zest to your table in record time. It’s colorful, full of bold flavors, and endlessly versatile — perfect for anything from a casual lunch at home to a festive gathering with friends. Once you try it, you’ll see why it quickly becomes a staple in your recipe rotation. I can’t wait for you to experience how easy and delicious this Quick Italian Pasta Salad truly is!