Print

Easy Cheesy Pizza Pasta Salad Recipe with Pepperoni and Mozzarella for Perfect Parties

pizza pasta salad - featured image
Print Recipe

A quick and easy pasta salad combining the best flavors of pizza with pepperoni, fresh mozzarella, and a tangy Italian dressing. Perfect for parties, potlucks, or casual get-togethers.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces (225 g) rotini pasta (or your favorite short-cut pasta)
  • 1 cup (150 g) sliced pepperoni (regular or turkey pepperoni works)
  • 1 ½ cups (170 g) fresh mozzarella balls or cubed mozzarella (small-curd mozzarella preferred)
  • 1 cup (150 g) cherry tomatoes, halved
  • ½ cup (60 g) diced green bell pepper
  • ½ cup (60 g) sliced black olives (optional)
  • ½ cup (120 ml) extra virgin olive oil
  • ¼ cup (60 ml) red wine vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning blend (or a mix of dried oregano, basil, and thyme)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder (or 1 small clove minced fresh garlic)
  • 1 teaspoon honey or sugar
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Optional garnishes: fresh basil leaves, grated Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces (225 g) of rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Drain the pasta in a colander and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and cool it down. Set aside to drain fully.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together ½ cup (120 ml) olive oil, ¼ cup (60 ml) red wine vinegar, 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon honey. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust seasoning if needed.
  3. While the pasta is cooking, halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the green bell pepper, slice the black olives, and cut fresh mozzarella into bite-sized pieces if not using pre-cut balls. Slice pepperoni into halves or quarters depending on size.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta, pepperoni, mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, green bell pepper, and olives. Pour the dressing over the top. Using a large spoon or spatula, gently toss everything together until well coated. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  5. Cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. Right before serving, sprinkle fresh basil leaves and grated Parmesan if using. Give one last gentle toss to mix in the garnish.

Notes

Rinse pasta under cold water after draining to prevent stickiness. Use fresh mozzarella for best texture. Whisk dressing thoroughly to create a smooth emulsion. Add dressing gradually to avoid over-oiling. Chill salad for at least 30 minutes for best flavor. Add fresh basil and Parmesan just before serving. Avoid freezing the salad as mozzarella and fresh veggies do not freeze well.

Nutrition

Keywords: pizza pasta salad, cheesy pasta salad, pepperoni pasta salad, mozzarella pasta salad, party salad, easy pasta salad, Italian dressing pasta salad

Find it online: https://fizzlefork.com/easy-cheesy-pizza-pasta-salad-recipe-with-pepperoni-and-mozzarella-for-perfect-parties/