Pizza Pasta Salad
Fresh • Flavorful • Perfect for Summer Gatherings
Prep
15m
Chill
1 Hour
Total
1:15
Serves
6–8
Difficulty
Easy
From My Kitchen
This Pizza Pasta Salad has quickly become the most-requested recipe in my home whenever a summer gathering is on the horizon. There is something about the combination of tri-color rotini, savory pepperoni, and fresh mozzarella that just signals the start of the season.
I have always had a soft spot for make-ahead recipes. As much as I love entertaining, I love being part of the conversation even more. This salad is my secret weapon; it actually gets better after a few hours in the fridge, giving all those tangy flavors time to soak into the pasta.
Whether you're hosting a backyard BBQ or contributing to a neighborhood potluck, this dish brings a vibrant pop of color to the table. It’s simple, flavorful, and one of those recipes that always brings people back for seconds.
It’s simple, colorful, and one of those recipes that always brings people back for seconds.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Perfect Make-Ahead Dish
Easy to Customize
Great for Potlucks
Summer Entertaining
Family Favorite
Crowd Pleaser
Ingredients
Pasta Salad
- 16 oz tri-color rotini pasta, cooked al dente
- 5 oz mini pepperoni (or chopped pepperoni slices)
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella pearls
- 1 pint grape tomatoes, halved
- 1 (2.25 oz) can sliced black olives, drained
- 4 green onions, sliced
Just Before Serving
- 3 cups chopped romaine lettuce
- 1/2 cup Newman's Own Creamy Italian Dressing
- 1/4 cup Olive Garden Italian Dressing
- 1/3 cup chunky blue cheese dressing
Step-by-Step Instructions
01
Cook the rotini pasta in salted water according to package directions. Drain and rinse with cold water until completely cool.
02
In a large serving bowl, combine the cooled pasta, pepperoni slices, mozzarella pearls, cherry tomatoes, black olives, and green onions.
03
Pour the Italian dressing over the salad and toss well until everything is evenly coated.
04
Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
05
Just before serving, add the chopped romaine and ranch dressing. Toss well and enjoy!
Shannon’s Kitchen Tips
✓ Chilling the salad for at least one hour allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the dressing to soak into the pasta.
✓ Always add the chopped romaine and extra ranch just before serving to keep the salad crisp and fresh.
✓ Mozzarella pearls (ciliegine) are perfect for this salad, providing a creamy bite that balances the spicy pepperoni.
✓ This salad actually tastes even better the next day—making it the ultimate stress-free dish for entertaining.
✓ Hosting a large crowd? Doubling this recipe is a breeze and it's always the first bowl to reach the bottom.
Make It Your Own
Mini Pepperoni
Banana Peppers
Diced Salami
Parmesan Cheese
Bell Peppers
Gluten-Free Pasta
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?
Yes! In fact, it's recommended. This salad tastes best after chilling for at least an hour, or even overnight, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
How long will it stay fresh in the fridge?
When stored in an airtight container, the pasta salad remains fresh and delicious for 3–4 days. Just give it a quick toss before serving.
Can I use regular Italian dressing instead of the specific mix?
You certainly can, though the combination of Italian dressing with a touch of ranch (added at the end) provides that signature creamy, tangy farmhouse flavor.
What extra vegetables can I add?
Bell peppers, cucumbers, or even marinated artichokes work wonderfully if you want to pack in more garden-fresh crunch.
Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
Absolutely. Simply omit the pepperoni and salami, and consider adding sundried tomatoes or extra mozzarella pearls for protein and depth.
❄️
How to Keep it Fresh
Store any leftover salad covered in the refrigerator for 3–4 days. This salad actually gets better as it sits! For the best texture, wait to add the chopped romaine and extra ranch dressing until just before you're ready to serve.
I hope this Pizza Pasta Salad brings a little bit of summer sunshine to your table and becomes a new favorite for your family gatherings. If you make it, I’d love to hear how it turned out! Tag @FaithFoodFarm or leave a comment below.