Follow these steps for perfect results
rotini pasta
cooked
garbanzo beans
rinsed and drained
sliced pepperoni
halved
sliced ripe olives
drained
sweet pepper (red)
diced
green pepper
diced
mushrooms
sliced
garlic
minced
basil
salt
oregano
pepper
olive oil
lemon juice
Cook the rotini pasta according to package directions.
Drain the pasta and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
Place the cooked pasta in a large salad bowl.
Add the rinsed and drained garbanzo beans to the bowl.
Halve the sliced pepperoni and add them to the bowl.
Add the drained sliced ripe olives to the bowl.
Add the diced sweet red pepper to the bowl.
Add the diced green pepper to the bowl.
Add the sliced mushrooms to the bowl.
Add the minced garlic cloves to the bowl.
Add the basil, salt, oregano, and pepper to the bowl.
Mix all the ingredients in the bowl well.
In a jar with a tight-fitting lid, combine olive oil and lemon juice.
Shake the jar vigorously to emulsify the oil and lemon juice.
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat evenly.
Cover the salad bowl and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.
Stir the salad before serving to redistribute the dressing and ingredients.
Expert advice for the best results
Add other vegetables like cucumber, tomatoes, or bell peppers.
Use a variety of olives for different flavors.
Adjust the amount of olive oil and lemon juice to your taste.
Everything you need to know before you start
15 minutes
Yes, flavors meld better overnight
Serve chilled in a large bowl or individual portions. Garnish with a sprig of fresh basil.
Serve as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish.
Serve as a light lunch with crusty bread.
Complements the acidity and savory flavors.
Light and refreshing to balance the richness.
Discover the story behind this recipe
A classic Italian appetizer served before a meal.
Discover more delicious Italian-American Lunch, Dinner, Side Dish recipes to expand your culinary repertoire
A refreshing and customizable pasta salad with a variety of vegetables and chicken, perfect for a potluck or a light meal.
A vibrant and flavorful pasta salad featuring tri-colored rotini, salami, kidney beans, and a tangy Italian dressing. Perfect as a side dish or a light meal.
A vibrant and flavorful orzo pasta salad featuring artichoke pesto, grilled corn, and cherry tomatoes. Perfect for a light lunch or side dish.
A refreshing and vibrant tortellini salad with cheese-filled tortellini, juicy tomatoes, sweet corn, and a zesty lemon-Parmesan dressing.
A vibrant and flavorful pasta salad with fusilli pasta, fresh vegetables, cheeses, and meats tossed in Italian dressing.
A vibrant and flavorful pasta salad featuring classic antipasto ingredients like salami, roasted red peppers, hearts of palm, and mozzarella pearls tossed in a pesto dressing. Perfect for gatherings or a quick and easy meal.
A quick and easy pesto pasta salad perfect for potlucks and gatherings.
A colorful and flavorful tortellini salad perfect for gatherings. This salad combines cheese tortellini with a variety of vegetables, meats, and a zesty Italian dressing.