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Easy Pepperoni Pizza Pasta Salad – Best 15-Minute Recipe

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This Easy Pepperoni Pizza Pasta Salad is a quick, 15-minute meal that tastes just like your favorite pizza. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, and lazy Sundays, using simple ingredients you likely already have on hand.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450g) pasta (rotini or fusilli)
  • 6 ounces (170g) pepperoni, sliced and quartered
  • 8 ounces (225g) fresh mozzarella pearls (or cubed)
  • 1 cup (150g) cherry tomatoes, halved or quartered
  • 1/2 cup (75g) sliced black olives
  • 1/2 cup (75g) green bell pepper, diced
  • 1/4 cup (40g) red onion, finely diced
  • 1/3 cup (80ml) extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons (30ml) red wine vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup (25g) grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Do not overcook.
  2. Rinse and cool: Drain the pasta in a colander and immediately rinse under cold running water to stop the cooking process. Shake well to remove excess water.
  3. Prepare the ingredients: While the pasta cooks or cools, chop the pepperoni into small bite-sized pieces. Halve or quarter the cherry tomatoes. Dice the green bell pepper and finely chop the red onion. If using a large block of mozzarella, cut it into small cubes.
  4. Make the dressing: In a small bowl or mason jar, combine the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. If using Parmesan, add it now. Whisk vigorously or shake until well combined and emulsified. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  5. Combine everything: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooled pasta, chopped pepperoni, mozzarella pearls, cherry tomatoes, black olives, diced bell pepper, and red onion. Pour the dressing over the top.
  6. Toss gently: Using a large spoon or spatula, gently toss everything together until the pasta and all ingredients are evenly coated in the dressing. Be careful not to break up the mozzarella too much.
  7. Chill (optional but recommended): Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. If serving immediately, it’s still delicious.
  8. Serve: Give the salad a final stir, taste, and adjust salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with extra Parmesan or fresh basil if desired. Serve cold or at room temperature.

Notes

For best flavor, chill for at least 30 minutes before serving. If making ahead, add a splash of olive oil or lemon juice before serving to refresh the dressing. To crisp the pepperoni, quickly sauté in a dry skillet for 1-2 minutes before adding.

Nutrition

Keywords: pasta salad, pepperoni pizza pasta salad, easy pasta salad, 15-minute recipe, potluck recipe, kid-friendly, summer salad

Find it online: https://emacrave.com/easy-pepperoni-pizza-pasta-salad-best-15-minute-recipe/