Taste of Sunshine: Dive into Florida’s Homemade Italian Pasta Salad Recipe

In Florida, where vibrant flavors meet fresh ingredients, there's no better dish to whip up for a picnic or BBQ than a classic Italian Pasta Salad. This chilled, refreshing dish is perfect for the hot Florida climate, offering a combination of hearty pasta, fresh vegetables, and tangy Italian dressing. Whether you're hosting a summer gathering or looking for a quick and flavorful meal, this pasta salad brings a bit of Italy to the Sunshine State.

Photo byNick Davies

The Perfect Pasta Salad for Florida Florida is known for its fresh, local produce, and this homemade Italian pasta salad makes the most of it. The dish combines al dente pasta with crisp bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, olives, and mozzarella. What truly sets this recipe apart is its zesty, homemade Italian dressing. The fresh herbs, olive oil, and red wine vinegar create a tangy, refreshing flavor perfect for summer dining.

The beauty of pasta salad is that it can be made ahead, perfect for Florida’s laid-back, outdoor lifestyle. Let it chill for a few hours in the fridge, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Recipe: Florida Style Homemade Italian Pasta Salad

Ingredients:

• 12 oz rotini or bowtie pasta
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup mozzarella balls (bocconcini), halved
• 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 green bell pepper, diced
• 1/2 cup salami, cubed (optional)
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped

For the Dressing:

• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta according to package directions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine pasta, tomatoes, mozzarella, olives, red onion, bell pepper, and salami (if using).
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, mustard, garlic, oregano, and basil. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss to coat.
5. Refrigerate for at least an hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

This Italian Pasta Salad is a versatile and refreshing dish that fits perfectly with Florida’s sunny lifestyle. Serve it as a side at your next cookout, or pack it for a beach picnic. With its vibrant colors and zesty flavors, it’s sure to be a hit at any gathering. Plus, you can easily adapt the ingredients to suit your taste, making it a dish you’ll turn to again and again.

For more information on similar recipes, check out sites like (Tastes Better From Scratch)​(Spend With Pennies​(Natasha's Kitchen), Spend with Pennies, or Natasha's Kitchen.