Pizza Pasta Salad

This Pizza Pasta Salad is the perfect fusion of two classic favorites: pizza and pasta. Packed with all the delicious toppings you love on a pizza, tossed together with pasta and a zesty Italian dressing, it’s a flavorful and satisfying dish ideal for gatherings, picnics, or easy weeknight dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe combines the best of both worlds—savory pizza flavors and hearty pasta. It’s quick to prepare, highly customizable, and makes a crowd-pleasing side dish or main meal. Plus, it’s easy to make ahead and tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Rotini pasta
• Pepperoni slices
• Cherry tomatoes
• Black olives
• Mozzarella cheese cubes
• Red onion
• Green bell pepper
• Parmesan cheese
• Italian dressing
• Fresh basil
• Salt and pepper

Directions

1. Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, pepperoni slices, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced black olives, mozzarella cheese cubes, diced red onion, and diced green bell pepper.
3. Pour Italian dressing over the pasta and toppings. Toss until everything is well coated.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Add grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil for extra flavor.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields about 6 to 8 servings.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Chilling time: 30 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes

Variations

• Use turkey pepperoni or a vegetarian pepperoni alternative for a lighter or meat-free version.
• Add other pizza toppings like mushrooms, banana peppers, or artichoke hearts.
• Use a different pasta shape like penne or bowtie for variety.
• Swap mozzarella cubes for mini mozzarella balls for a different texture.
• Make it spicy by adding red pepper flakes or jalapeños.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover pizza pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
This salad is meant to be enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so reheating is not necessary. If it seems a bit dry after storing, just toss it with a little extra Italian dressing before serving.

FAQs

How long can pizza pasta salad sit out?

It’s best not to leave it out for more than 2 hours to avoid spoilage.

Can I make pizza pasta salad a day ahead?

Yes, it’s even better when made a day in advance to allow the flavors to blend.

What type of pasta works best for pizza pasta salad?

Short, sturdy pasta like rotini, penne, or bowtie works best.

Can I use homemade Italian dressing?

Absolutely, homemade Italian dressing can enhance the flavor even more.

Is pizza pasta salad served warm or cold?

It’s traditionally served cold or at room temperature.

Can I freeze pizza pasta salad?

Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the pasta and vegetables will change.

What can I use instead of pepperoni?

You can substitute with cooked sausage slices, salami, or a vegetarian alternative.

How can I make it gluten-free?

Use your favorite gluten-free pasta to make this recipe gluten-free.

What cheeses are good besides mozzarella?

Provolone, cheddar, or a blend of Italian cheeses can work well.

Can I add a protein to make it a full meal?

Yes, adding grilled chicken or cooked shrimp makes it a hearty main dish.

Conclusion

Pizza Pasta Salad is a fun, flavorful twist on traditional pasta salads. With its colorful ingredients and irresistible pizza-inspired taste, it’s sure to become a staple for potlucks, family dinners, and casual lunches. Easy to customize and perfect for making ahead, this dish is as convenient as it is delicious.

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