Italian Sandwich Pasta Salad Recipe

Craving an Italian sub but want something lighter? This vibrant pasta salad captures all the delicious flavors of your favorite Italian sandwich! Juicy tomatoes, crisp pickles, savory olives, and crunchy water chestnuts combine with your choice of meat and cheese in a zesty vinaigrette. Get ready for a burst of fresh, satisfying flavor in every bite! Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or a quick weeknight meal.

Prep Time 15 mins
Cook Time 25 mins
Calories 279.2 kcal
Protein 23g
Rating 5.0 (2 Reviews)
Italian Sandwich Pasta Salad 15

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Italian Sandwich Pasta Salad

  • Tri Color Spiral Pasta
  • 1/2 cup chopped dill pickles
  • Ripe Olives
  • Green Onion
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
  • Sweet Pepper
  • Water Chestnut
  • 1 1/2 cups chopped tomatoes
  • Ham
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Olive Oil
  • Cider Vinegar
  • Onion Powder
  • Garlic Powder
  • Salt And Pepper
  • Italian Seasoning

How to Make Italian Sandwich Pasta Salad

  1. Cook 1 pound pasta according to package directions. Drain and rinse with cold water; set aside.
  2. In a large bowl, combine 1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion, 1/2 cup chopped dill pickles, 1/2 cup sliced Castelvetrano olives, 1 cup chopped water chestnuts, 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives, and 1/2 cup chopped bell peppers (any color or combination).
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup olive oil, 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon dried basil, 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
  4. Pour dressing over the vegetables and gently toss to combine. Marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes for maximum flavor.
  5. Add the cooked pasta, 1 1/2 cups chopped tomatoes, 1 cup cubed cooked Italian meats (e.g., salami, mortadella, capicola), and 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese to the bowl. Gently toss to combine.
  6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld. Serve chilled and 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

22 g

Sugar

12g

Fat

11g

Carbs

12g