Italian Pasta Salad with Pepperoni

This Italian Pasta Salad with Pepperoni is what summer cookout dreams are made of. It’s cold, zesty, and loaded with bold, savory flavors that hit all the right notes.

Italian Pasta Salad With Pepperoni

I am borderline obsessed with this salad in the summer and fall. You’ve got rotini, tomatoes, parmesan, and the salty bite of olives and artichokes, all tied together with a generous pour of Italian dressing. And don’t sleep on the pepperoni! It brings a meaty punch that makes this salad feel like a full-on dish, not just a side. This one’s a crowd-pleaser for backyard parties, potlucks, or anytime you need a quick make-ahead win.

This salad keeps well, so it’s perfect for prepping the night before. The pasta soaks up all that dressing and seasoning while it chills, making it better the longer it sits. The flavor payoff is enormous for such an easy prep.

Rotini holds onto the dressing and chopped goodies like a champ. It’s the pasta you want when the fridge is full and the stove doesn’t need to be.

If you’re cooking for picky eaters, this salad checks all the boxes. It’s colorful, flavorful, and can easily be tweaked depending on what you’ve got on hand.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

• Make-Ahead Friendly – Best served cold and improves with a few hours in the fridge.
• Customizable – Easy to swap out ingredients based on what’s in your pantry or fridge.
• Big Flavor – Salty, tangy, and herby with a hit of pepperoni spice.
• Perfect for Crowds – Makes a big batch and works for BBQs, picnics, or meal prep.
• Minimal Cooking – Just boil the pasta, everything else is chop and stir.

20+ Easy Pasta Salad Recipes

Italian Pasta Salad With Pepperoni Shopping List

Wondering if you have to hit the grocery store or if you have all the ingredients you need for this? Check out this list! For the full ingredients list, including the amounts you’ll need, make sure to scroll to the bottom and view the recipe card.

• Rotini Pasta – Its spiral shape grabs onto dressing and ingredients. Fusilli or penne work too.
• Cherry Tomatoes – Juicy and sweet, they balance out the saltiness. Grape tomatoes are a good backup.
• Pepperoni – Brings a spicy, meaty depth. Salami or chopped ham can swap in.
• Shredded Parmesan Cheese – Adds sharp, nutty flavor. Grated or shaved works too.
• Kalamata Olives – Briny and bold. Black olives are a milder sub.
• Marinated Artichoke Hearts – Tangy and tender. Canned ones work in a pinch.
• Italian Seasoning Blend – Ties everything together with herbs. Oregano and basil work solo if needed.
• Italian Dressing – Brings the zip. Use a zesty store-bought one or make your own.

My favorite Meatball Marinara with Campanelle!

How To Make Italian Pepperoni Pasta Salad

Looking to see what you’re getting into here? Below is a general overview of the recipe steps. When you’re cooking, make sure to use the recipe card at the bottom of the post for the full instructions.

1. Boil The Pasta – Use a big pot of salted water. Cook until al dente, then rinse in cold water to cool.
2. Chop And Mix – In a large bowl, mix tomatoes, pepperoni, olives, cheese, artichokes, and seasoning.
3. Combine With Pasta – Add the cooled pasta to the bowl with half the dressing. Toss to coat.
4. Chill – Cover and refrigerate for 3–4 hours to let the flavors meld.
5. Serve It Up – Add more dressing right before serving, depending on taste.

You’ll love this Pasta Primavera!

FAQ

Try our Tuna Pasta Salad, too!

More Pasta Salad Recipes To Try

• Zesty Italian Pasta Salad – Pasta with veggies, sliced pepperoni, and zesty Italian dressing.
• Greek Pasta Salad – A veggie-packed, refreshing Greek-style pasta salad with feta and optional mini pepperoni.
• Italian Pasta Salad – Bright tri‑color pasta tossed with broccoli, olives, tomatoes, mini pepperoni, and Italian dressing.
• Italian Tortellini Pasta Salad – Cheese tortellini with veggies, arugula, and mini pepperoni in a zesty Italian dressing.

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