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Healthy Reese’s Eggs (High Protein) Recipe

Healthy Reese’s Eggs (High Protein) Recipe
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★★★★★

5.1 from 9 reviews

A vibrant and flavorful Quick Italian Pasta Salad that combines al dente rotini noodles with savory pepperoni and salami, fresh vegetables, mozzarella pearls, and a zesty homemade Italian dressing. Perfect for a refreshing side dish or a light meal, this salad can be prepared ahead and chilled for enhanced flavor.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Pasta:

  • 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

For The Dressing:

  • 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

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Italian Dressing: Combine 3/4 cup native olive oil, 1/4 cup red wine vinegar, 2 tablespoons organic lemon juice, 1/4 cup finely 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, and 1/2 teaspoon sugar in a jar. Shake vigorously for 30 seconds until well mixed. Refrigerate until ready to use, shaking or whisking before adding to the salad.
  2. Cook the Rotini Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 1 lb of rotini noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain thoroughly and transfer to a large serving bowl while still warm, tossing gently to prevent sticking.
  3. Combine Pasta and Half of the Dressing: Pour half of the prepared Italian dressing over the warm pasta. Toss well to coat the noodles evenly, allowing the warm pasta to absorb the flavors of the dressing.
  4. Add Remaining Salad Ingredients: Add the quartered pepperoni, quartered salami slices, halved cherry tomatoes, halved black olives, diced orange and green bell peppers, finely diced red onion, chopped pepperoncini, and mozzarella pearls to the dressed pasta. Toss gently but thoroughly to distribute all ingredients evenly, folding in the mozzarella last to maintain their shape.
  5. Chill the Salad: Cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours to let the flavors meld together. Store the remaining half of the Italian dressing separately in the fridge.
  6. Finish and Serve: Before serving, toss the chilled pasta salad with the remaining dressing. Garnish generously with grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of minced parsley for extra flavor and presentation.

Notes

  • Use warm pasta when mixing with the dressing to help it absorb more flavor.
  • Chilling the salad enhances the taste and makes it refreshing.
  • Store leftover dressing separately to keep the salad fresh and prevent sogginess.
  • Feel free to substitute or add your favorite Italian meats or vegetables.
  • Gently fold in the mozzarella pearls at the end to retain their shape and texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: Italian pasta salad, quick pasta salad, rotini salad, pepperoni pasta salad, mozzarella salad, cold pasta salad, summer salad

Find it online: https://frommamamaya.com/healthy-reeses-eggs-high-protein-recipe/