Meta Description
Discover our irresistible creamy Italian pasta salad recipe. Easy, quick, and full of freshness, it is ideal for your barbecues and picnics!
Introduction
Nothing screams “summer” or “shared meals” quite like a generous, comforting pasta salad. This creamy Italian version combines tender fusilli, melting cheese cubes, savory salami, and crunchy vegetables, all coated in a perfectly seasoned creamy dressing. It is the ultimate dish to delight the whole family in no time.
Ingredients
For the salad:
- 350 g fusilli pasta (or rotini, preferably tricolor for extra color)
- 150 g mozzarella cubes (or provolone)
- 100 g salami, sliced or diced
- 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and finely diced
- 50 g black or green olives, sliced
- 1 bunch fresh basil, chopped
For the creamy dressing:
- 120 g mayonnaise
- 60 g thick crème fraîche or Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
Instructions (Step by Step)
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fusilli and cook “al dente” according to package instructions. Drain and rinse immediately with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool them down.
- Prepare the dressing: In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, crème fraîche (or yogurt), red wine vinegar, olive oil, garlic powder, and Italian herbs until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
- Combine the ingredients: Add the cooled pasta to the large bowl with the dressing. Next, toss in the mozzarella cubes, salami pieces, red bell pepper dice, and sliced olives.
- Toss gently: Mix thoroughly so that every ingredient and piece of pasta is well coated with the creamy dressing.
- Add the finishing touch: Sprinkle with chopped fresh basil just before serving to bring a vibrant burst of freshness.
Service Suggestions
- Serve this salad well-chilled as a light main dish during hot summer days.
- It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, chicken skewers, or pork chops at your barbecues.
- Present it in a large rustic ceramic bowl for a guaranteed friendly atmosphere.
Storage Tips
- In the refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container. The salad keeps well for 2 to 3 days.
- Freshness tip: Since pasta tends to absorb the dressing over time, feel free to add a small drizzle of olive oil or a spoonful of mayonnaise before serving again to revive its creamy texture.
FAQs
- Can I make this salad ahead of time? Yes, absolutely! It is even recommended to prepare it 2 to 3 hours before serving so the flavors develop nicely in the refrigerator.
- How can I make the recipe vegetarian? Simply omit the salami and replace it with halved cherry tomatoes or marinated artichoke hearts.
- What type of pasta is best suited? Short pasta with ridges or twists (such as fusilli, penne, or farfalle) is ideal because it holds the creamy dressing perfectly.
Conclusion
Easy to prepare, ultra-gourmand, and bursting with sunny flavors, this creamy Italian pasta salad is sure to win over all your guests. Enjoy!