Description
This Pepperoni Pizza Creamy Pasta Salad combines the classic flavors of a pepperoni pizza with a creamy pasta salad base. Featuring bowtie pasta, mini pepperoni slices, cherry tomatoes, yellow pepper, and mozzarella cheese, all tossed in a rich, tangy dressing made with sour cream, tomato paste, and parmesan, this dish is perfect for parties, picnics, or a flavorful side dish.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Ingredients
- 1 (12-oz) box bowtie pasta shapes, cooked and rinsed under cold water
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 yellow pepper, chopped
- 5 oz mini pepperoni slices
- 8 oz mozzarella cheese, diced
Dressing Ingredients
- 1/4 cup oil
- 3/4 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup tomato paste
- 1/4 cup finely grated parmesan
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust depending on parmesan saltiness)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Black pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil and oregano for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large salad bowl, mix the cooked and cooled bowtie pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, chopped yellow pepper, mini pepperoni slices, and diced mozzarella cheese until evenly distributed.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together the oil, sour cream, tomato paste, grated parmesan, red wine vinegar, salt, garlic powder, dried oregano, and black pepper until creamy and fully combined.
- Toss Salad with Dressing: Pour the creamy dressing over the pasta salad mixture. Toss thoroughly to ensure every ingredient is coated with the dressing.
- Garnish and Serve: Optional—garnish with fresh basil and oregano leaves for enhanced color and flavor. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
- Make sure to rinse the cooked pasta under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it for the salad.
- Adjust salt according to the saltiness of the parmesan cheese to avoid oversalting.
- Fresh herbs add a lovely aroma and fresh flavor but are optional.
- This salad keeps well refrigerated for up to 2 days; ideal for making ahead.
- You can substitute mini pepperoni with other cured meats or omit for a vegetarian version, adjusting the diet classification accordingly.
