Best 3 Marinated Italian Pasta Salad Recipes

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**Marinated Italian Pasta Salad: A Refreshing Summer Dish**

As the sun shines brightly and temperatures rise, it's time to embrace the vibrant flavors of summer with a refreshing marinated Italian pasta salad. This delectable dish combines the classic flavors of Italy with the convenience of a make-ahead meal, making it a perfect addition to your summer gatherings or a delightful lunch option.

Our marinated Italian pasta salad features a medley of colorful vegetables, tender pasta, and a zesty marinade that bursts with Italian herbs and tangy vinegar. With variations such as a creamy, cheesy version and a vibrant pesto dressing, we offer a range of options to satisfy every palate. Whether you prefer a classic Italian flavor profile or a more contemporary twist, our recipes provide a culinary journey that celebrates the essence of summer. Dive into the freshness of marinated Italian pasta salad and experience a taste of la dolce vita at your next meal.

Check out the recipes below so you can choose the best recipe for yourself!

MARINATED ITALIAN PASTA SALAD



Marinated Italian Pasta Salad image

When I have guests coming over or a busy day ahead, I like to make this salad because I prepare it the day before.

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories     Lunch

Time 15m

Yield 12-16 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 12

1 package (16 ounces) medium pasta shells
1/4 pound hard salami, cubed
1/4 pound sliced pepperoni, halved
1 block (4 ounces) provolone cheese, cubed
4 medium tomatoes, seeded and chopped
4 celery ribs, chopped
1 medium green pepper, chopped
1/2 cup sliced pimiento-stuffed olives
1/2 cup sliced ripe olives
1 bottle (8 ounces) Italian salad dressing
2 teaspoons dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon pepper

Steps:

  • Cook pasta according to package directions; drain pasta and rinse in cold water. , Place in a gallon-size resealable plastic bag; add the salami, pepperoni, cheese, vegetables and olives. Add the salad dressing, oregano and pepper; seal and turn to coat. Cover and refrigerate overnight. Transfer to a serving bowl.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 261 calories, Fat 14g fat (4g saturated fat), Cholesterol 18mg cholesterol, Sodium 704mg sodium, Carbohydrate 25g carbohydrate (3g sugars, Fiber 2g fiber), Protein 9g protein.

MARINATED MACARONI SALAD



Marinated Macaroni Salad image

This is an excellent macaroni salad that everyone in my family has made over the years, and now I make. We have this with dinner at least once a week or every two weeks. It's a hit with everyone, as there's ketchup and sugar in it for the kids. Just try it; you'll LOVE it!

Provided by KillerKitty

Categories     Salad     100+ Pasta Salad Recipes     Tomato Pasta Salad Recipes

Time 1h40m

Yield 8

Number Of Ingredients 11

1 cup canola oil
⅔ cup white sugar
⅔ cup ketchup
½ cup white vinegar
2 teaspoons salt
½ teaspoon ground black pepper
4 cups rotini pasta
2 tomatoes, chopped
1 small onion, diced
1 green bell pepper, chopped
1 cup chopped cucumber

Steps:

  • Whisk canola oil, sugar, ketchup, vinegar, salt, and black pepper together in a bowl. Set aside to let the flavors blend for 30 minutes.
  • Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Cook the rotini at a boil until tender yet firm to the bite, about 8 minutes; drain. Rinse with cold water to cool; drain.
  • Combine cooled pasta, tomatoes, onion, green bell pepper, and cucumber in a bowl.
  • Drizzle the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss to coat.
  • Chill in refrigerator for 1 hour before serving.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 503.5 calories, Carbohydrate 56.7 g, Fat 28.8 g, Fiber 2.4 g, Protein 6.5 g, SaturatedFat 2.2 g, Sodium 809.7 mg, Sugar 24.3 g

MARINATED ITALIAN SALAD



Marinated Italian Salad image

This is a perfect salad for potlucks and other occasions year-round. In winter, the ingredients are available when many other vegetables aren't in season...and in summer, it's a worry-free picnic food since it doesn't have a mayonnaise-based dressing.

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories     Lunch

Time 30m

Yield 12 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 10

4 cups fresh broccoli florets
3 cups fresh cauliflowerets
1/2 pound sliced fresh mushrooms
2 celery ribs, chopped
4 green onions, thinly sliced
1 can (8 ounces) sliced water chestnuts, drained
1 bottle (16 ounces) Italian salad dressing
1 envelope Italian salad dressing mix
1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
1 can (2-1/4 ounces) sliced ripe olives, drained

Steps:

  • In a large serving bowl, combine the broccoli, cauliflower, mushrooms, celery, onions and water chestnuts. In a small bowl, whisk salad dressing and dressing mix; drizzle over vegetables and toss to coat. , Cover and refrigerate overnight. Just before serving, add tomatoes and olives; toss to coat.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 189 calories, Fat 16g fat (2g saturated fat), Cholesterol 0 cholesterol, Sodium 927mg sodium, Carbohydrate 11g carbohydrate (5g sugars, Fiber 3g fiber), Protein 2g protein.

Tips:

  • Use high-quality pasta made with durum wheat for the best texture and flavor.
  • Cook the pasta al dente according to the package instructions to retain a slightly firm bite.
  • Rinse the pasta with cold water immediately after cooking to stop the cooking process and prevent it from sticking together.
  • Marinate the pasta salad for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.
  • Use a variety of vegetables in your pasta salad to add color, texture, and nutrients.
  • Choose a dressing that complements the flavors of the pasta and vegetables. A simple vinaigrette is a good option, or you can use a store-bought dressing.
  • Serve the pasta salad chilled or at room temperature.

Conclusion:

Marinated Italian pasta salad is a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a main course or side dish. It's perfect for potlucks, picnics, and summer gatherings. With so many variations to choose from, you're sure to find a recipe that you'll love. So next time you're looking for a quick and easy meal, give marinated Italian pasta salad a try!

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