Name: Pepperoni Pasta Salad
Ingredients: 8 oz. Fiber Gourmet Light Spaghetti; to taste Water (plus 1 tsp. salt for cooking pasta); 1 cup Sliced Cherry Tomatoes; 6.5 oz. Sliced Olives; 5 oz. Mini Pepperoni; 1/3 cup Sliced Green Onions; 1/2 cup Coarsely Grated Parmesan; 1/2 cup Chopped Fresh Basil; 1/3 cup Newman's Own Classic Oil and Vinegar Dressing; 1/2 tsp. Italian Herb Seasoning; 1/2 tsp. Garlic Powder; to taste Salt and Fresh-Ground Black Pepper

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When I think of summer gatherings, nothing embodies the spirit of easy, vibrant meals quite like Pepperoni Pasta Salad. It’s the dish that always makes an appearance at picnics, barbecues, and family reunions. Picture this: the sun is shining, the grill is sizzling, and you’ve got a big bowl of this delicious salad ready to serve. It’s colorful, packed with flavor, and the best part is, it’s incredibly simple to whip up. I remember the first time I made it; I was so excited about the mix of fresh ingredients and savory mini pepperoni. The crunch of the green onions, the juiciness of cherry tomatoes, and the rich taste of Parmesan all come together to create a dish that’s not just a side but a highlight of any meal.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
60 mins

Prep Time:
0 mins

Cook Time:
0 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
360 kcal

Protein:
12 g

Diet:
Paleo, Whole30, Gluten-Free

Fat:
22 g

Tools Used:
Whisk, Blender, Large Pot, Saucepan, Grater, Chef’s Knife, Mixing Bowl

What’s Great About This Pepperoni Pasta Salad

1. It’s a Crowd-Pleaser

Whenever I serve Pepperoni Pasta Salad, it’s always a hit. Friends and family flock to it, drawn by the vibrant colors and tantalizing aroma. Everyone has their own twist to add, making it a fun conversational starter about variations.

2. Easy Preparation

There’s something liberating about a recipe that doesn’t require hours of preparation. This salad is incredibly easy to throw together. You can cook the spaghetti, chop the vegetables, and toss everything together in under an hour. That means more time enjoying the day and less time in the kitchen.

3. Versatile Ingredients

The beauty of this dish lies in its flexibility. You can easily adjust the ingredients based on what you have on hand. Want to add some bell peppers or swap the mini pepperoni for something else? Go for it! This salad can be tailored to your taste or what’s available in your pantry.

4. Perfect for Meal Prep

One of my favorite things about Pepperoni Pasta Salad is that it keeps well in the fridge. Making a big batch at the beginning of the week means I have a refreshing lunch option ready to go. Just grab a serving, and you’re set!

5. A Flavorful Dressing

The dressing is a game-changer. Combining Newman’s Own Classic Oil and Vinegar Dressing with Italian Herb Seasoning and garlic powder lends a beautiful depth of flavor. It’s light yet packed with taste, enhancing each bite of the salad.

6. Great for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a casual lunch, a potluck, or a festive gathering, this salad fits right in. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats or can be served as a standalone dish at a light summer dinner.

Ingredients for Pepperoni Pasta Salad

When it comes to creating a dish like Pepperoni Pasta Salad, the ingredients play a crucial role. Each component contributes to a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The spaghetti serves as a hearty base, while the fresh tomatoes and green onions provide brightness. The mini pepperoni adds a savory kick, and the dressing ties everything together beautifully.

8 oz. package Fiber Gourmet Light Spaghetti: A lighter alternative to traditional pasta, this spaghetti cooks beautifully and provides a satisfying base for the salad.
Water + 1 tsp. salt for cooking pasta: Essential for boiling the pasta to perfection, ensuring it’s flavorful.
1 cup sliced cherry tomatoes: These add a burst of freshness and sweetness to the dish.
One 6.5 oz. can sliced olives: Their briny flavor complements the other ingredients and adds complexity.
One 5 oz. package mini pepperoni: A fun twist that brings a savory, meaty dimension to the salad.
1/3 cup sliced green onions: They contribute a mild onion flavor and a lovely crunch.
1/2 cup coarsely grated Parmesan: This cheese adds richness and a salty kick that’s hard to resist.
1/2 cup chopped fresh basil: Fresh herbs brighten up the dish and add layers of flavor.
1/3 cup Newman’s Own Classic Oil and Vinegar Dressing: A flavorful dressing that binds all the elements together.
1/2 tsp. Italian Herb Seasoning: This adds an aromatic touch that enhances the overall taste.
1/2 tsp. garlic powder: For a hint of garlicky goodness that elevates the flavor profile.
Salt and fresh-ground black pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning to your liking.

The Process for Making Pepperoni Pasta Salad

Let’s dive into the fun part—making Pepperoni Pasta Salad. It’s all about the process, and I promise you’ll enjoy every step. From cooking the pasta to mixing the fresh ingredients, it’s a delightful assembly of flavors and textures.

First, break the spaghetti noodles in half or thirds. This step isn’t just for fun; it makes it easier to mix the salad later. Think about how you want to enjoy it—bite-sized pieces are always a hit!
Next, bring a pot of water to a boil. Make sure to add that teaspoon of salt to the water. It’s essential for flavoring the pasta as it cooks. Add the broken Fiber Gourmet Light Spaghetti and cook it at a low simmer for the time indicated on the package, typically around 14 minutes. Remember to taste it as it cooks; you want the perfect al dente texture!
Once the pasta is cooked to your liking, drain it well in a colander placed in the sink. Make sure to shake off any excess water. You want the pasta to be dry, so the dressing can cling to it.
While the spaghetti is cooking, you can prep your vegetables. Start by slicing the cherry tomatoes crosswise into 3 or 4 slices per tomato. Look for the juiciest ones you can find; they’ll add so much flavor to your salad!
Next, drain the can of olives. You can slice them if you prefer bite-sized pieces, or leave them as is for a bit more texture.
Now, let’s tackle the green onions. Slice them thinly; they add a delightful crunch and a mild onion flavor that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
Don’t forget about the fresh basil! Chop it finely to release its wonderful fragrance. This is what will make your salad really sing!
If you’re using regular pepperoni instead of mini, cut each slice in half or quarters so that you have roughly one cup. For mini pepperoni, you’re good to go straight from the package.
Next, measure out about 1/2 cup of coarsely grated Parmesan. It’s a key player in this dish, adding richness and depth. Set aside to mix into the salad later.
Now, let’s focus on the dressing. In a mixing bowl, whisk together Newman’s Own Classic Oil and Vinegar Dressing, Italian Herb Seasoning, and garlic powder. This combination will give your salad a zesty kick. You can also add a bit of the chopped basil to this mix for an extra burst of flavor!
Transfer the drained pasta to a large mixing bowl. It’s time to bring everything together! Pour the dressing over the pasta, ensuring every strand is coated.
Gently mix in the sliced tomatoes, mini pepperoni, olives, and green onions. Be careful not to break the pasta as you stir; you want to keep that lovely texture!
Finally, mix in 6 tablespoons of the grated Parmesan and season to taste with salt and fresh-ground black pepper. This is where you can adjust the flavors to your liking. Taste and tweak!
Before serving, sprinkle the remaining Parmesan over the top of the salad. This little touch of cheese adds a beautiful finishing note. Pepperoni Pasta Salad can be served at room temperature or chilled, making it perfect for any occasion!

Things Worth Knowing

Cooking pasta: Always remember to salt your pasta water. It’s the key to flavoring the pasta, and it makes a world of difference!
Serving temperature: This salad is delightful either warm or chilled. Experiment to see which way you prefer it!
Adjusting flavors: Don’t hesitate to modify the amounts of dressing or seasoning. Taste and adjust as you go for the perfect balance.
Ingredient swaps: Feel free to mix in other veggies or proteins. This salad is versatile and can accommodate various tastes!

Ways to Adapt This Recipe

One of the best things about Pepperoni Pasta Salad is its adaptability. You can easily make it your own with these tips:

Storage: This salad keeps well in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure it’s stored in an airtight container.
Freezing: While it’s not ideal for freezing due to the fresh ingredients, you can prepare the pasta and dressing separately and freeze them.
Pairing: Excellent served alongside grilled chicken or fish, it also makes a great standalone dish for lunch or dinner.
Vegetarian option: For a vegetarian twist, you can replace the mini pepperoni with roasted chickpeas or marinated tofu.
Seasonal variations: Feel free to add seasonal vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for different flavors throughout the year.
Herb variations: Experiment with different herbs, such as parsley or cilantro, to give the salad a unique flair.

How to Enjoy Pepperoni Pasta Salad

As a side dish: This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or a hearty main dish, making it a perfect barbecue companion.
Perfect for picnics: Pack it in a cooler for outdoor gatherings. It holds up well, even in warmer weather.
Lunch option: A great choice for meal prep, it’s easy to grab for a quick lunch during the week.
At parties: It’s a crowd-pleaser, ideal for potlucks or casual gatherings with friends and family.
Seasonal pairing: Serve it with a refreshing summer drink, like iced tea or lemonade, to complement the flavors.
Leftover ideas: Toss any leftovers with additional greens or proteins for a quick and easy meal the next day.

FAQ

Absolutely! In fact, Pepperoni Pasta Salad is great for making ahead of time. You can prepare it a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This way, you’ll have a refreshing salad ready to go for lunch or dinner without any last-minute fuss.

If you want to switch things up, there are several options for substituting mini pepperoni. You could use diced salami, turkey pepperoni, or even grilled chicken for a different protein. For a vegetarian option, consider adding roasted chickpeas or marinated tofu for an extra protein boost while keeping the dish deliciously satisfying.

This salad can last in the fridge for up to three days when stored properly in an airtight container. As the days go by, the flavors will continue to meld, making it just as tasty on day three as it was on day one! However, be cautious with very fresh ingredients like basil, as they may wilt over time. Keeping the salad covered helps maintain its freshness.

Definitely! If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, simply substitute the Fiber Gourmet Light Spaghetti with your favorite gluten-free pasta. Just be sure to follow the cooking instructions on the package for the best texture. This way, you can still enjoy the vibrant flavors of Pepperoni Pasta Salad without the gluten!

Conclusion

Pepperoni Pasta Salad stands out as a perfect blend of flavors and textures, making it a go-to dish for any gathering. It’s easy to prepare and adapts wonderfully to different tastes and occasions. So why not give it a try? You’ll find that once you make it, it’ll become a favorite in your household. Enjoy this refreshing salad at your next barbecue or picnic and watch everyone come back for seconds!