Patty's Pasta Salad 🌈🍝

This vibrant pasta salad is perfect for picnics, potlucks, or as a delightful side for any summer meal! Packed with delicious ingredients, it's not only colorful but also satisfying. The zesty dressing brings all the flavors together and keeps every bite fresh and tasty. Serve it chilled for a refreshing treat, and watch it disappear at your next gathering! 🥳

Ingredients

For the Salad

• 1 1/2 pounds seashell pasta
• 1 can (6 ounces) pitted black olives, chopped
• 2 large tomatoes, chopped
• 4 ounces sliced pepperoni sausage, each slice cut in half
• 1/2 cup chopped green olives
• 3 bunches green onions, chopped
• 2 cups chopped ham (or turkey for a lighter option)
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

For the Dressing

• 1 bottle (16 ounces) zesty Italian dressing

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the seashell pasta until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool.

🌊 Rinsing the pasta helps prevent it from becoming gummy and sticking together, ensuring a light and fluffy salad.

2. Combine the Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the cooled pasta with black olives, tomatoes, pepperoni, green olives, green onions, and chopped ham or turkey.

🥗 Feel free to get creative! You can add bell peppers, cucumbers, or even a handful of spinach for an extra crunch and nutrient boost.

3. Dress the Salad: Just before serving, fold in the shredded mozzarella cheese and pour in the zesty Italian dressing. Toss gently to combine all ingredients evenly.

🥄 For a creamier texture, consider adding a dollop of mayonnaise or Greek yogurt alongside the dressing.

Variations

• Gluten-Free: Substitute the seashell pasta with a gluten-free pasta alternative. This will keep the dish just as delightful without the gluten!
• Mediterranean Twist: Add feta cheese, artichoke hearts, and diced cucumber for a Mediterranean flair. A sprinkle of oregano is a nice touch! 🌿
• Spicy Kick: Spice things up by adding a few slices of jalapeño or some crushed red pepper flakes to the salad.
• Dairy-Free: Swap the mozzarella for a dairy-free cheese alternative, or you can omit it entirely for a lighter dish.

Enjoy your refreshed take on a classic pasta salad that's sure to impress your guests! 🍽️🥳