pasta salad with mini pepperoni

Pasta salads are a classic summer dish, often served as a side dish, appetizer, or main course. They are also an excellent way to use up leftover cooked pasta. This particular pasta salad is made with mini pepperoni slices, which adds a delightful flavor. With just a few simple ingredients, you can make a delicious pasta salad in no time at all!

Ingredients Needed

To make this delicious pasta salad, you will need the following ingredients:

2 cups cooked pasta of your choice
1/4 cup Italian dressing
1/4 cup diced red bell pepper
1/2 cup mini pepperoni slices
1/4 cup diced red onion
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

The first step in making this pasta salad is to cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Once it is cooked, drain it and let it cool completely. While it is cooling, dice the red bell pepper and red onion and slice the pepperoni.

Once the pasta is cooled, place it in a large bowl. Add the Italian dressing, diced red bell pepper, mini pepperoni slices, diced red onion, and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix everything together until it is well combined. Add salt and pepper to taste.

Transfer the pasta salad to a serving bowl and serve immediately. It can also be served cold, but it's best when eaten right away. Enjoy!

Tips and Tricks

Here are some tips and tricks to make the perfect pasta salad:

Use a variety of colors and textures when making your pasta salad. This will give it more flavor and visual appeal.
Add a few tablespoons of chopped fresh herbs to the salad for extra flavor.
For a vegan version of this salad, substitute vegan cheese for the Parmesan cheese.
To add more protein to the salad, you can add cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of pasta is best for pasta salad?

Any type of pasta can be used for pasta salad. However, small shapes like shells, macaroni, and rotini work best because they hold onto the dressing and other ingredients better.

Can this pasta salad be served cold?

Yes, this pasta salad can be served cold or at room temperature. It's best when eaten right away, but it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I use vegan cheese instead of Parmesan?

Yes, you can use vegan cheese instead of Parmesan cheese to make this dish vegan-friendly.

How do I add more protein to this dish?

If you want to add more protein to this dish, you can add cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu. Alternatively, you can add beans such as chickpeas or black beans.