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Prep Time: 30 Minutes Cook Time: 60 Minutes |
Ready In: 90 Minutes Servings: 30 |
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Where I grew up in NY state, versions of this type of salad were plentiful. Don't confuse this with a traditional Italian antipasta - this is different. This version is my own and is my absolute favorite pasta salad. I have brought this to many potlucks and it is always a big hit. I make this a lot during the summer and even serve a hearty portion of it for my lunch. It makes a ton - this is great for parties because it can be made a day ahead and keeps a couple of days covered in the fridge. Prep time allows for chopping of veggies, etc and cooking the pasta. Cook time is actually chilling time. I use Skinner brand tri-color rotini spirals that come 12 ounces bags. Ingredients:
1.5 (12 ounce) packages corkscrew shaped pasta, cooked, drained, cooled (i use the 3 colored kind sold in the 12 ounce bags) |
2 cups white cheese, in bite sized cubes (i use either swiss, provolone, or sometimes monterey jack) |
1 (6 ounce) can small black olives, pitted, drained, sliced |
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved |
1 cup pepperoni, diced (optional) |
1/4-1/2 cup red onion, minced |
2 (6 1/2 ounce) jars marinated artichoke hearts, drained, chopped |
2 bunches broccoli, florets only, cut into small pieces |
3/4 cup olive oil or 3/4 cup canola oil |
4 -6 tablespoons red wine vinegar |
1 teaspoon worcestershire sauce |
1 teaspoon salt |
1/4 teaspoon mustard powder |
1 teaspoon minced garlic, more to taste |
1/4 cup lemon juice |
1 dash fresh ground pepper |
1/4-1/2 cup parmesan cheese or 1/4-1/2 cup romano cheese, grated |
Directions:
1. Combine all veggies, cheese, and meat in a very large bowl with cooled pasta.
2. In a blender, combine all dressing ingredients, using only 4 Tbsp of the vinegar and 1/4 cup Parmesan to start; blend until smooth.
3. Pour dressing over veggies and toss well.
4. Taste and add more vinegar, Parmesan, salt etc to taste as needed- this will vary greatly depending upon your preferences.
5. Chill at least 1 hour, then toss and test for seasonings again, adding more if needed.
6. Serves a crowd!
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