Italian Deli Salad
A vibrant Italian-inspired deli salad featuring artichokes, mozzarella, olives, pepperoni, and pasta, perfect for picnics, potlucks, or casual gatherings with bold flavors and textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions, then drain and let cool.
- In a large bowl, combine drained artichoke hearts, cubed mozzarella, sliced olives, sliced pepperoni, red onion rings, and diced green pepper.
- Add the cooked pasta to the bowl with the other ingredients.
- Pour the Seven Seas 'Viva Italian' dressing over the mixture.
- Toss everything together until well coated.
- Sprinkle shredded Parmesan cheese on top.
- Cover and chill the salad for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider adding diced salami or prosciutto to enhance the deli flavor. You can substitute the rotini with any pasta shape you prefer, like penne or fusilli. If you're looking for a lighter option, use low-fat mozzarella or Greek yogurt-based dressing instead of the Seven Seas 'Viva Italian'. This salad can be made ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully, making it perfect for potlucks or picnics.
Serving Suggestions
This Italian Deli Salad is a fantastic side for summer barbecues or as a main dish for a light lunch. Pair it with garlic bread or the Mostaccioli & Sausage Bake for a hearty meal. It also complements grilled meats beautifully, making it a versatile addition to any meal. Consider serving it alongside a refreshing Italian Omelet for a delightful brunch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, but the pasta may absorb some dressing, so consider adding a bit more before serving. To refresh the salad, toss it gently before serving to redistribute the ingredients and dressing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Italian Deli Salad contains roughly 987 calories, with 56g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 74g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (112% of the Daily Value), calcium (55% of the Daily Value), and iron (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2574mg per serving (112% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this salad a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld, enhancing the overall taste. Just remember to toss it before serving and consider adding a bit more dressing if needed.
What can I use instead of artichoke hearts?
If you don't have artichoke hearts, you can substitute them with sun-dried tomatoes for a different flavor profile. Alternatively, you can use diced cucumbers for a crunchier texture or skip them altogether if you prefer a simpler salad.
Is this salad gluten-free?
To make this salad gluten-free, simply substitute the rotini pasta with a gluten-free pasta option. There are many varieties available that taste great and hold up well in salads. Always check the labels to ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).