Italian Chopped Pasta Salad

Crispy prosciutto, crunchy veggies, and the perfect Italian dressing blend come together in this vibrant and festive pasta salad.

Italian Chopped Pasta Salad FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any short pasta like penne, fusilli, or cavatappi works well for this recipe.

How long can I store this pasta salad?

This pasta salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Can I make this salad vegetarian?

Yes, simply omit the prosciutto to make this salad vegetarian.

What can I substitute for pepperoncini?

You can use banana peppers or pickled jalapeños as a substitute for pepperoncini.

Can I make the dressing ahead of time?

Yes, the dressing can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Shake well before using.

Italian Chopped Pasta Salad

Crispy prosciutto, crunchy veggies, and the perfect Italian dressing blend come together in this vibrant and festive pasta salad.

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Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Lunch

Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 12 oz short pasta (penne fusilli, cavatappi, or heart-shaped)
• 2 Roma tomatoes seeded and diced
• 1 cup cucumber quartered and sliced
• 3/4 cup mixed bell peppers (red yellow, orange), thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup pepperoncini diced
• 6 oz prosciutto crisped and crumbled
• 1/4 cup red onion diced
• 3/4 cup mini mozzarella balls
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmigiano Reggiano
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp pepperoncini brine
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• Freshly cracked black pepper to taste

Method

 

1. Cook pasta in well-salted water until just al dente. Drain and let cool.

1. Crisp up prosciutto in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden and crackly. Transfer to paper towel; crumble once cooled.

1. Whisk all dressing ingredients until emulsified.

1. Toss pasta in a large bowl. Add tomatoes, cucumber, bell peppers, red onion, pepperoncini, mozzarella, and prosciutto.

1. Finish with your dressing, grated Parm, and black pepper.=

1. Chill 20–30 minutes before serving. Taste and adjust with olive oil or salt if needed.

Notes

• For a festive touch, use heart-shaped pasta, but any short pasta will work.
• This salad is great for meal prep as it stays fresh and balanced, and the flavors develop even more as it sits in the fridge.
• Adjust the sweetness of the dressing by adding more or less honey to suit your taste.