Whenever I need a quick dish that’s filling, flavorful, and loved by everyone, I make this Salami & Mozzarella Pasta Salad. It’s packed with tender pasta, salty salami, creamy mozzarella, and a simple dressing that brings everything together. This salad is perfect for picnics, potlucks, lunch boxes, or easy dinners.
Quick Facts
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Prep Time: 15 minutes
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Cooking Time: 10 minutes
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Total Time: 25 minutes
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Serving Size: 4–6 servings
Why You’ll Love This Salami & Mozzarella Pasta Salad
This pasta salad is bold, satisfying, and incredibly easy to make. The salami adds a savory bite, the mozzarella keeps it creamy, and the dressing is light but full of flavor. I love how well it holds up in the fridge, making it great for meal prep or make-ahead gatherings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
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3 cups cooked short pasta (penne, fusilli, or rotini)
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1 cup sliced salami (beef or pork)
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1 cup fresh mozzarella balls or cubes
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1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
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1/4 cup sliced olives
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
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1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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Optional: fresh basil or parsley
How I Make My Salami & Mozzarella Pasta Salad
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Cook pasta according to package instructions.
Drain and let it cool completely.
Step 2: Build the Salad
In a large bowl, combine pasta, salami, mozzarella, tomatoes, and olives.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
Whisk olive oil, vinegar, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
Step 4: Toss & Chill
Pour dressing over the salad and toss gently.
Chill for 15–20 minutes before serving for best flavor.
Fresh, hearty, and perfectly balanced!
Serving Suggestions
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Serve as a side for grilled meats or sandwiches.
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Enjoy as a light main dish on warm days.
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Pack for picnics, potlucks, or lunch boxes.
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Pair with crusty bread or garlic toast.
Tips for Customization
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Add veggies: Bell peppers, cucumbers, or red onions work great.
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Make it spicy: Use spicy salami or add chili flakes.
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Use a creamy dressing: Swap in a light Italian mayo dressing.
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Make it lighter: Use whole-wheat pasta and less cheese.
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Vegetarian option: Skip salami and add grilled vegetables.
Nutritional Info (Approx. per serving)
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Calories: 380–420
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Carbs: 35–40g
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Fat: 22–26g
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Protein: 14–18g
FAQs
1. Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?
Yes! It tastes even better after chilling for a few hours.
2. How long does it last in the fridge?
Up to 3 days in an airtight container.
3. Should I rinse the pasta after cooking?
Yes, rinsing helps cool it and prevents sticking.
4. Can I use shredded mozzarella instead?
Fresh mozzarella gives the best texture, but shredded works too.
Final Bite
This Salami & Mozzarella Pasta Salad is simple, satisfying, and full of bold flavors. It’s one of those recipes I keep coming back to because it works for almost any occasion. Easy to make, easy to love — and always a crowd favorite.
