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Apps, Snacks & Sides30 Minute MealsEntreesPasta

Italian Meatlover Pasta Salad

  • Prep Time: 35 mins
  • Cook Time: 0 mins
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This Italian Meatlover Pasta Salad is the ultimate summer dish that combines the best of both worlds – hearty meats and refreshing vegetables! This pasta salad combines savory mini meatballs, diced pepperoni, salami, and more with a zesty homemade Italian dressing. With its bold flavors and satisfying textures, it’s guaranteed to be a hit at your next gathering.

Here is why you with love this Italian Meatlover Pasta Salad:

  • Loaded with protein from three types of meat
  • Bursting with fresh Mediterranean flavors
  • Easy to prepare and perfect for make-ahead meals
  • Customizable to suit your taste preferences
  • A crowd-pleaser that serves a large group

If you like this pasta salad recipe, you may also enjoy my BLT Pasta Salad, my Rainbow Orzo Pasta Salad or my Green Goddess Pasta Salad!

Tips & Substitutions

  • To make this recipe dairy-free, simply remove the mozzarella balls.
  • To make this recipe gluten-free, simply swap the pasta for a gluten-free option.
  • For best flavor, prepare the salad a few hours in advance or even the night before serving.
  • Feel free to substitute or add your favorite vegetables or meats to customize the recipe! The mini meatballs that I am using are from Simek's, which is my favorite brand of frozen, store-bought meatballs.
  • If you would like to make this recipe even simpler, feel free to use your favorite store-bought Italian dressing instead of making your own!
  • If the pasta salad seems dry after chilling, drizzle with a little extra olive oil or reserved dressing.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Italian Meatlover Pasta Salad

Packed with savory meats, fresh veggies, and zesty homemade dressing, this Italian Meatlover Pasta Salad is an easy make-ahead dish that is perfect for summer gatherings.
  • Prep time: 35 mins
  • Cook Time: 0 mins
Print Recipe

Ingredients

– 12 oz pasta, cooked (A smaller, bite sized pasta works best)
– 1 cup mini meatballs (I like to use Simek’s mini meatballs here)
– 3/4 cup pepperoni, diced
– 3/4 cup salami, diced
– 3/4 cup mini mozzarella balls
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, quartered
– 1 green bell pepper, diced
– 1/2 medium red onion, diced
– 1 cup pepperoncini, diced
– 1/4 cup parsley, diced
– 1/4 cup basil, diced
Italian Dressing
– 3/4 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
– 3 tbsp red wine vinegar
– 2 tbsp dijon mustard
– 1 tsp honey
– 2 tbsp minced garlic
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp pepper
– 1/4-1/2 tsp red pepper flakes

Directions

  1. Preheat your oven and prepare meatballs according to package instructions. For best results, bake them in the oven. Once cooked, set aside to cool completely.
  2. While the meatballs are cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your chosen pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Toss the cooled pasta with 1 tablespoon of olive oil to prevent sticking.
  3. In a sealable container, combine all the Italian dressing ingredients. Secure the lid and shake vigorously for about 20 seconds until the dressing is fully emulsified.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cooked meatballs, pepperoni, salami, mozzarella balls, cherry tomatoes, green bell pepper, red onion, pepperoncini, parsley, and basil.
  5. Pour the homemade Italian dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently until all ingredients are evenly coated.
  6. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
  7. Before serving, give the pasta salad a quick stir and adjust seasoning if needed. Enjoy your delicious Italian Meatlover Pasta Salad!
Keywords: easy dinneritalian pasta saladmeatloverpastapasta saladsummer dinner
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Hi there! My name is Brooke Nickelatti and I am a recipe developer, food photographer, and lover of nutrition science. I am a firm believer that a healthy lifestyle begins in the kitchen and it is my mission to help others learn how to prepare meals that are both delicious and nutritious in a simple, time, and cost-efficient manner.

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Things Used in Recipe

Baking Sheets

Large Glass Prep Bowls

Magnetic Measuring Spoons

Material Kitchen Cutting Board

Material Kitchen Knife Set

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Baking Sheets

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Large Glass Prep Bowls

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Magnetic Measuring Spoons

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