IRRESISTIBLE PASTA SALAD

This Irresistible Pasta Salad is the kind of dish that disappears first at every cookout, potluck, family reunion, or holiday gathering. Packed with colorful vegetables, three kinds of cheese, mini pepperoni, and plenty of zesty Italian dressing, it's hearty enough to serve as a meal and always a crowd favorite.

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The secret to this recipe is letting the pasta soak up the dressing overnight before adding a second round of dressing just before serving. That extra step keeps every bite flavorful, fresh, and perfectly coated, making this pasta salad truly irresistible.

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Kraft Zesty Italian Dressing

Using plenty of zesty Italian dressing gives this pasta salad its signature tangy, herb-filled flavor. Allowing the pasta to absorb the first batch overnight creates incredible depth of flavor, while the second addition before serving keeps the salad moist and vibrant.

McCormick Salad Supreme Seasoning

Salad Supreme is the ingredient that takes this recipe to the next level. Its blend of Romano cheese, sesame seeds, paprika, herbs, and spices adds texture and a savory flavor that makes people ask for the recipe every time.

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Recipe Origin

Every family has that one recipe that gets requested for every gathering, and this is ours. Whether it's a backyard barbecue, graduation party, church picnic, or holiday meal, someone always asks if this pasta salad is coming.

Over the years we've learned that the overnight rest—and especially adding more dressing just before serving—is what transforms an ordinary pasta salad into something unforgettable. It's simple, feeds a crowd, and somehow tastes even better the next day.

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Helpful Tips

• Cook the pasta until just al dente so it stays firm after soaking overnight.

• Rinse the cooked pasta with cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it quickly.

• Use freshly shredded cheese for the best texture and flavor.

• Stir the salad well before serving to redistribute the dressing and seasonings.

• Taste before serving and add a little extra salt, pepper, or Salad Supreme if needed.

Serving Suggestions

• Grilled burgers

• BBQ chicken

• Smoked ribs

• Pulled pork sandwiches

• Italian sandwiches

• Fried chicken

• Fresh fruit and watermelon

Storage

Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Stir before serving. If the pasta absorbs more dressing during storage, simply add a little extra Italian dressing to freshen it up.

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Why This Recipe Stands Out

• Perfect for feeding a large crowd.

• Loaded with fresh vegetables, cheese, and pepperoni.

• Incredible make-ahead recipe.

• Better after chilling overnight.

• The second addition of dressing keeps it creamy and flavorful.

• Easy to customize with your favorite vegetables or meats.

• A guaranteed hit for cookouts, potlucks, and family gatherings.

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🎉 Exciting News for Wine Cheese Scallops! 🎉 We’re now officially Amazon Affiliates! If you’re planning any Amazon shopping, you can support our blog just by using our link – no extra cost to you, no matter what you’re buying! 🛒💖

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So whether it’s kitchen gadgets, books, holiday gifts, or anything else you need, every purchase through our link helps us keep sharing delicious recipes, foodie tips, and restaurant finds! 🌟 Thank you for being part of our journey!

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Irresistible Pasta Salad

Ingredients

• 1 (12-ounce) box bow tie (farfalle) pasta

• 1 (12-ounce) box tri-color rotini

• 1 red bell pepper, chopped

• 1 yellow or orange bell pepper, chopped

• 1 green bell pepper, chopped

• 1 English cucumber, seeded and chopped

• 6–8 green onions, thinly sliced

• 1 pound cherry or grape tomatoes, halved

• 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded

• 8 ounces Colby Jack cheese, cubed

• 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese

• 4 ounces mini pepperoni

• 2 family-size bottles Kraft Zesty Italian Dressing (or four 16-ounce bottles)

• ¼ cup McCormick Salad Supreme Seasoning

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the bow tie pasta and tri-color rotini according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water until completely cooled.

2. While the pasta cooks, chop the bell peppers, cucumber, green onions, and tomatoes.

3. In a very large mixing bowl or roasting pan, combine the cooled pasta, bell peppers, cucumber, green onions, and tomatoes.

4. Add the shredded cheddar, cubed Colby Jack, Parmesan cheese, and mini pepperoni. Toss until evenly distributed.

5. Pour in one family-size bottle of Kraft Zesty Italian Dressing (or two 16-ounce bottles). Sprinkle in the Salad Supreme Seasoning, season with salt and pepper, and stir until everything is well coated.

6. Cover and refrigerate overnight. During this time, the pasta will absorb much of the dressing, allowing the flavors to develop.

7. Just before serving, pour in the remaining family-size bottle of dressing (or the remaining two 16-ounce bottles). Toss thoroughly until every piece of pasta is evenly coated.

8. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve chilled.

Notes

• This recipe makes a large batch, making it perfect for cookouts, potlucks, family reunions, and holiday gatherings.

• The overnight chill is key to developing the best flavor.

• Adding the second bottle of dressing just before serving keeps the salad fresh, flavorful, and perfectly coated.

• Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

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MUST-HAVE TOOLS FOR THIS RECIPE

We’re so excited for you to try this recipe! To make it even easier, we’ve put together a list of our favorite kitchen tools that are super helpful for this recipe. By using our affiliate links below, you’ll not only be getting top-notch products but also supporting our blog, Wine Cheese Scallops. Thank you so much for your support—happy cooking!

1. Glass Mixing Bowls

2. Stainless Steel Bench Scraper & Chopper

3. Quality Knife

   1. Top Shelf Knives by ZWilling

4. Stainless Steel Strainer Set

5. Measuring Cups and Spoons Set

6. Large Cutting Board

7. 8Qt Pot with Lidhttps://amzn.to/49GejCo

   1. Our Hestan 8Qt Pot with Lid

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Frequently Asked Questions | IRRESISTIBLE PASTA SALAD

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. In fact, it's even better when made the day before serving.

Can I use different pasta shapes?

Yes. Rotini, penne, fusilli, or shells all work well. Using two different shapes adds visual appeal and texture.

Can I leave out the pepperoni?

Yes. The salad is still delicious as a vegetarian side dish without it.

Can I add other vegetables?

Certainly. Black olives, broccoli, carrots, banana peppers, or artichoke hearts are all great additions.

Why do you add dressing twice?

The pasta absorbs a surprising amount of dressing overnight. Adding more just before serving keeps the salad moist, flavorful, and prevents it from becoming dry.

How many people does this serve?

This recipe makes approximately 18–24 side dish servings, depending on portion size.

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