This Italian Sub Pasta Salad combines all the classic flavors of a deli-style sandwich in a refreshing and satisfying dish. The combination of savory meats, tangy olives, creamy mozzarella, and crisp vegetables tossed with zesty Italian dressing makes it a crowd-pleasing favorite.
Perfect for summer picnics, potlucks, or meal prep, this pasta salad is easy to make and even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Whether served as a main dish or a side, it brings the delicious taste of an Italian deli to your table with minimal effort!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 12 oz rotini pasta
- 1/2 cup salami, chopped
- 1/2 cup pepperoni, chopped
- 1/2 cup ham, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/2 cup banana peppers, sliced
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, cubed
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/3 cup Italian dressing
- 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, salami, pepperoni, ham, cherry tomatoes, olives, banana peppers, red onion, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the Italian dressing, red wine vinegar, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss well to coat.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
A Pasta Salad with Bold Italian Flavors
If you love the classic flavors of an Italian sub sandwich, this Italian Sub Pasta Salad is the perfect way to enjoy all those delicious deli ingredients in a fresh, easy-to-make dish. Loaded with savory meats, crunchy vegetables, creamy mozzarella, and zesty Italian dressing, this pasta salad is both satisfying and flavorful. Whether you’re preparing a meal for a summer picnic, a potluck, or a quick family dinner, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
A Little Background: Inspired by the Iconic Italian Sub Sandwich
The Italian sub sandwich, also known as a hoagie, hero, or grinder, is a beloved deli staple that originated in Italian-American communities in the early 20th century. Traditionally made with layers of cured meats like salami, pepperoni, and ham, combined with provolone or mozzarella cheese, crisp lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and tangy banana peppers, the sandwich is dressed with oil, vinegar, and Italian seasonings.
This Italian Sub Pasta Salad takes the essence of the classic sub and transforms it into a versatile, easy-to-eat dish that’s perfect for any occasion. By swapping out the bread for tender pasta, this recipe offers all the flavors and textures of an Italian sub with the added convenience of a make-ahead pasta salad.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
✔ Bursting with Flavor – The combination of salty, savory meats, sweet cherry tomatoes, sharp red onions, and briny olives creates an explosion of taste in every bite. The addition of Italian dressing and red wine vinegar ties everything together with a zesty, tangy kick.
✔ Perfect for Meal Prep – This pasta salad tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together in the refrigerator. It’s a great make-ahead meal for busy weeks, meal prepping, or packed lunches.
✔ Customizable to Your Taste – You can easily adjust the ingredients based on your preferences. Prefer turkey instead of ham? Go for it! Want extra spice? Add some crushed red pepper flakes. Looking for a vegetarian version? Swap the meats for chickpeas or marinated artichokes.
✔ Great for Gatherings – Whether you’re hosting a barbecue, attending a potluck, or planning a casual lunch, this dish is always a hit. Since it can be served cold or at room temperature, it’s ideal for large gatherings.
✔ Nutrient-Rich Ingredients – This dish isn’t just delicious—it’s also packed with nutrients. The vegetables provide essential vitamins and minerals, the olive oil and olives add healthy fats, and the lean proteins help keep you full.
The Best Ingredients for the Perfect Italian Sub Pasta Salad
The magic of this recipe comes from the balance of ingredients. Here’s why each one plays an important role in making this salad the best:
- Rotini Pasta – Its spiral shape holds onto the dressing, making sure every bite is flavorful. You can also use bowtie or penne pasta if preferred.
- Salami, Pepperoni & Ham – These deli meats provide a delicious, salty, and slightly spicy contrast to the pasta and vegetables.
- Cherry Tomatoes – Adds a juicy sweetness that balances out the saltiness of the meats and cheese.
- Black Olives – A briny, umami-rich ingredient that enhances the Mediterranean flavors.
- Banana Peppers – Their tangy, slightly spicy flavor adds an extra layer of zestiness.
- Red Onion – Offers a sharp bite and crunch, making the salad more dynamic in taste and texture.
- Mozzarella Cheese – The creaminess of mozzarella complements the salty meats and tangy dressing perfectly.
- Parmesan Cheese – Adds a nutty, umami-rich depth of flavor to round out the dish.
- Italian Dressing & Red Wine Vinegar – This dressing brings everything together with a zesty, herby, and slightly acidic balance.
- Italian Seasoning & Garlic Powder – These spices enhance the overall flavor and bring the true Italian sub experience to life.
How to Serve & Pair This Dish
This Italian Sub Pasta Salad is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways:
- As a Side Dish – Serve alongside grilled meats, burgers, or barbecue favorites at summer cookouts.
- As a Main Course – Enjoy a big bowl for a filling yet refreshing meal.
- With a Slice of Garlic Bread – Pairing it with warm, crispy garlic bread makes it even more satisfying.
- With a Glass of Wine – A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc complements the bright, tangy flavors.
Make It Your Own: Customization Ideas
While this recipe is already packed with incredible flavors, you can easily tweak it to suit your taste:
- Make It Spicy – Add crushed red pepper flakes or swap banana peppers for spicy jalapeños.
- Add More Protein – Toss in grilled chicken or hard-boiled eggs for an extra protein boost.
- Try a Different Cheese – Substitute feta or provolone for a unique twist.
- Add More Vegetables – Bell peppers, cucumbers, and artichokes can add extra crunch and freshness.
- Go Gluten-Free – Use your favorite gluten-free pasta to make this dish celiac-friendly.
- Make It Vegetarian – Skip the meats and add chickpeas, marinated tofu, or extra veggies.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
One of the best things about Italian Sub Pasta Salad is how well it keeps. Here’s how to store it:
Refrigeration – Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even tastier the next day.
Avoid Soggy Pasta – If making ahead, cook the pasta slightly al dente to prevent it from getting too soft.
Refreshing Leftovers – If the pasta absorbs too much dressing after sitting, simply drizzle a bit of extra Italian dressing or olive oil before serving.
Not Freezer-Friendly – Pasta salads don’t freeze well due to the fresh vegetables and dressing, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.
Conclusion: Why You Need to Try This Recipe
This Italian Sub Pasta Salad is the perfect way to enjoy the bold flavors of a classic deli sandwich in a fresh, vibrant, and incredibly satisfying dish. Packed with protein, healthy fats, and crisp veggies, it’s a well-balanced meal that’s perfect for any time of the year.
From busy weeknight dinners to summer picnics and holiday gatherings, this dish is guaranteed to impress. Plus, with so many ways to customize it, you can make it exactly how you like it.
So next time you’re craving something hearty yet refreshing, skip the sandwich and make this delicious pasta salad instead! Try it out and let me know your favorite way to enjoy it!