Megan'S Favorite Pasta Salad
Megan's Favorite Pasta Salad is a vibrant, flavorful dish featuring rotini pasta, sliced olives, salami, red onion, Parmesan, and fresh parsley, perfect for picnics and gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to the package directions.
- In a large bowl, combine sliced olives, salami, red onion, Parmesan cheese, parsley, and Italian dressing.
- Add the cooked pasta and toss well to combine.
- Chill the salad overnight before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, you can substitute the hard salami with turkey or chicken slices. If you're short on time, use pre-sliced olives and pre-grated Parmesan. Adding cherry tomatoes or bell peppers can add freshness and color. If you prefer a creamier texture, consider mixing in a bit of sour cream or Greek yogurt.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this pasta salad as a delightful side dish at picnics or barbecues. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats or alongside a slice of Refreshing Light Pie for dessert. For a complete meal, consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp on top.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, enhancing the taste. If the pasta salad seems dry after refrigeration, add a splash of Italian dressing before serving to refresh it.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Megan'S Favorite Pasta Salad contains roughly 357 calories, with 15g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (94% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (51% of the Daily Value), and potassium (44% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1314mg per serving (57% 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 pasta salad ahead of time?
Yes, this pasta salad is perfect for making ahead. It tastes even better after chilling overnight, allowing the flavors to blend. Prepare it a day in advance for the best results.
What type of pasta should I use?
Mixed vegetable rotini is a great choice for this recipe, adding a fun twist and color. However, you can substitute it with any short pasta like penne or fusilli, depending on your preference.
Can I add other ingredients to the salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize this pasta salad by adding ingredients like diced bell peppers, artichoke hearts, or even some feta cheese for added flavor. It's a versatile dish that welcomes personal touches.
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).