Antipasto Picnic Salad Recipe

This vibrant Antipasto Picnic Salad is bursting with fresh flavors and textures! Perfect for a light lunch, potluck, or picnic, this recipe features a zesty homemade dressing that takes it to the next level. Imagine creamy mozzarella, savory salami and pepperoni, crunchy giardiniera, and perfectly cooked pasta all tossed together in a refreshing, tangy vinaigrette. Get ready for the most delicious salad you've ever tasted!

Prep Time 20 mins
Cook Time 15 mins
Calories 224.1 kcal
Protein 30g
Rating 4.5 (2 Reviews)
Antipasto Picnic Salad

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Antipasto Picnic Salad

  • Whole Wheat Pasta Shells
  • 1 16-ounce jar giardiniera
  • Fresh Broccoli Florets
  • Mozzarella Cheese
  • Hard Salami
  • Deli Ham
  • Turkey Pepperoni
  • 1 cup chopped green bell pepper
  • Sliced Ripe Olives
  • Olive Oil
  • Red Wine Vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Fresh Coarse Ground Black Pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

How to Make Antipasto Picnic Salad

  1. Cook 1 pound pasta according to package directions. Drain and rinse under cold water; set aside.
  2. While pasta cooks, drain one 16-ounce jar of giardiniera, reserving 3/4 cup of the liquid.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the drained giardiniera, 2 cups chopped broccoli florets, 8 ounces fresh mozzarella pearls (or 1 cup cubed mozzarella), 4 ounces thinly sliced salami, 4 ounces thinly sliced ham, 4 ounces pepperoni slices, 1 cup chopped green bell pepper, and 1/2 cup pitted Kalamata olives.
  4. Add the cooked pasta to the bowl with the meat and vegetable mixture.
  5. In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup olive oil, 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and the reserved 3/4 cup giardiniera liquid.
  6. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat.
  7. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld before serving. Enjoy!

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Small additions can make a big impact! Try a sprinkle of fresh herbs, a dash of your favorite spice blend, or a squeeze of citrus just before serving to really enhance the flavors of your dish.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

40 g

Sugar

2g

Fat

19g

Carbs

5g